As seismic codes evolve, structural system selection impacts sustainability. A case study examines 10-story office buildings’ seismic force-resisting options through life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) rigorously.

Models included reinforced concrete foundations, steel superstructures with non-structural envelopes meeting code minimums. Software simulated 30-year performance with 5% discount rate, 1% annual escalation. Input data covered material/energy extraction, manufacturing, transportation, construction, maintenance and demolition transparently.

Braced frame designs deployed diagonal links within moment-resisting perimeter frames cost-effectively. Compact section sizes reduced embodied carbon 15% versus special concentric bracing consuming less high-strength steel purposefully. Foundation/foundations shallowed reducing concrete needs inherently. Erection concentrated lateral bracing simplifying construction logistics sequentially.

Moment frames detailed special connections doubling steel tonnage yet distributing forces uniformly. Continuous special inspections prolonged schedules disadvantaging tight project timelines adversely. Flexible framing accommodated future partitions favorably yet substantial member sizes dominated fabrication, transportation and erection inherently.

Over 60 years, braced frames offered 11% lower life cycle costs through lower initial capital outlay and minimal inspection/retrofit requirements intrinsically. Savings offset 2% higher maintenance needs from lesser reserve capacity transparently. LCA quantified 10% less embodied/operating carbon benefitting sustainability mandates overtly.

Challenges remain for both. Braced links concentrate stresses necessitating fracture-resistant connections reliably. Moment frames demand ductile seismic behavior improving through innovations safely. Hybrids may optimize advantages synergistically through calibrated stiffening economically.

Together, performance-based engineering inspires resilient structures uniting communities for generations cooperatively within nature’s equitable harmony. Accountable stewardship cultivates shared prosperity systematically.

Contact us, please click here!