Fixed and Base Isolated Framed Structures: A Comparative Study

Abstract Necessity of constructing multi-storied buildings is increasing these days. But they are more prone to severe damage due to earthquakes. Base isolation is one of the most powerful tools pertaining to the passive structural vibration control technologies. The structure above the ground, is separated from the effects of earthquake forces by introducing a mechanism that helps the structure to hover. This project deals with analysis of 10 storey RCC, Steel and Composite structures of different shapes with and without base isolation in various seismic zones by Response Spectrum Method using ETABS software. Lead rubber bearings designed as per UBC97 was used for base isolation. Plus shape was found to be most suitable for base isolation for RC structure, whereas for steel and composite structures rectangular and hollow shapes were found suitable. It was also observed that concrete structure performs best when base isolated, compared to other structures.