Aftershock Effect on Seismic Behavior of 3D Steel Moment-Resisting Frames

Abstract

Aftershocks are inevitable phenomena following a mainshock, especially after a major earthquake. However, the cumulative damage caused by aftershocks and its impact on structural performance evaluation has only recently received significant attention. This study explores the effects of mainshock–aftershock (MS–AS) sequences, including multiple consecutive aftershocks, acting on 3D steel moment-resisting frame structures. Following nonlinear time history analysis, several fundamental variables such as residual interstory drift, maximum displacement, plastic hinge formation, and base shear are evaluated to examine cumulative damage. In this context, the findings depicted in terms of aftershocks play a significant role in exacerbating plastic deformations and damage accumulation in steel moment frames. Subsequently, to mitigate cumulative damage on steel moment frames, retrofitting strategies were implemented. Retrofitting strategies effectively reduce cumulative damage and improve seismic resilience under multiple earthquake events. This research highlights the limitations of single-event seismic assessments and the need to incorporate sequential earthquake effects in design and retrofit practices. Furthermore, it provides new insights into mitigating further damage by retrofitting existing structures under multiple earthquakes.