Cost-benefit analysis of alternative retrofit strategies for RC frame buildings

Monetary losses induced by earthquakes in Reinforced Concrete (RC) buildings are mainly due to damage to non-structural elements (infills, partitions, finishes, etc.). In this study, alternative retrofit strategies for reducing monetary losses in RC frame buildings are examined. They include local strengthening of infills (and partitions) and seismic isolation. The Expected Annual Loss (EAL) of a number of RC frame buildings, pre- and post- rehabilitation, is evaluated, following the time-based assessment approach proposed in the FEMA P-58 guidelines. The break-even time of each retrofit intervention is then computed, considering the initial cost of the intervention and the expected benefit in terms of EAL reduction.