Sensitivity of the conditional period selection in the structural response using the CMS as target spectrum

A framework is presented for assessing the sensitivity of typical engineering demand parameters (EDP) to the conditional period selection when using conditional mean spectra (CMS) as targets for ground-motion selection in a performance-based seismic evaluation. The framework consists of computing a suite of CMS targets anchored at conditioning periods within a period range of interest to discretize the demand at a given hazard level, as represented by a uniform hazard spectrum (UHS). Ground motions are selected and scaled for the CMS suite and the associated UHS. The envelope of the median responses from the CMS suite is compared with the median response from the UHS. The framework is instrumental in identifying the conditioning period (T*) range for estimating CMS to capture the maximum median responses at the hazard level of interest. It also helps to characterize the relative difference in responses between using CMS targets and a UHS. The implementation of the methodology is illustrated by evaluating response quantities such as displacement-, acceleration, and force-based EDPs of four reinforced concrete moment frame structures of different heights under three levels of increasing hazard. Results confirm that the conditioning period used for ground-motion selection has a significant impact on the seismic response of displacement-based EDPs, and the sensitivity of the response varies with building height. For other EDPs, like maximum base shear and story acceleration, the results vary. Based on a limited-size ground motion set typically used in practice, the results indicate that UHS-targeted ground motions do not necessarily yield greater demand in comparison with using the CMS for estimating peak story drifts. For maximum floor accelerations, however, the CMS did produce smaller responses.