The effect on structural behavior of different slab types for RC buildings

Abstract

Considering the vertical-and lateral-effects to RC buildings are exposed, type of construction and geometrical properties of the bearing members is known as the effective parameters in the structural behavior. Slabs defined the bearing members are plane members that transfer the acting loads to the columns and beams. RC slabs are generally classified as beam slab, flat slab and ribbed slab according to the way of transferring the loads in RC buildings under seismic effects. Especially in housing types, ribbed slab system is preferred, while parking type structures are used flat slab system. In this choice, the function of the structure is taken into consideration, and the effect of the selected slab type on the seismic behavior of structures can be ignored. In this respect, the structural behavior of the slab types on the structural behavior must be investigated, extensively. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of slab type on structural behavior in a low-rise RC building. Within the scope of the study, three-dimensional structural model of the examined building is prepared by considering three different slab types, and then analyzed by using linear-and nonlinear-analysis methods such as equivalent earthquake load-, mode superposition-and time history analysis-method. As a result of numerical analysis, the parameters that are effective in the structural behavior and construction process-seismic performance, torsional behavior, story drift, etc.-are compared and evaluated the parameters in the selection of slab type in low-rise buildings. Consequently, suggestions for determining the most suitable slab system for the low-rise buildings presented.