Buckling Restrained Braces as a Strategy for Enhancing the Seismic Performance of Structures: A Comparative Analysis of Ductility and Energy Dissipation Capacity

Saeed Pourbaba¹ Seyedeh Parisa Mirizadeh²

1) MSc Civil Engineering-Structural,
2) MA Interior Architecture,

IOI Code : ABGG-ACACAZ
Publication : 11th.International Conference on Researches in Science & Engineering & 8th.International Congress on Civil, Architecture and Urbanism in Asia(11icrsie.ir)
Abstract :
    Given the importance of controlling the seismic response of buildings and limiting lateral displacement during earthquakes, the selection of lateral load-resisting systems plays a significant role in structural engineering. Conventional braces, despite increasing the lateral stiffness and strength of structures, experience strength degradation, stiffness reduction, and asymmetric behavior under cyclic loading due to compressive buckling. Buckling-restrained braces (BRBs) enable the steel core to yield in both tension and compression without global buckling, thereby enhancing seismic energy absorption and dissipation capacity. This study investigates the characteristics, performance, and applications of buckling-restrained braces in improving the seismic behavior of structures. The findings indicate that the use of this system can reduce lateral displacement, improve ductility, prevent damage concentration in primary structural members, and enhance structural stability under seismic loading. Furthermore, improved structural performance and the potential to reduce the need for certain bracing components highlight the capability of this system to achieve more economical structural designs. Therefore, buckling-restrained braces can be considered an effective option for seismic design and the seismic retrofitting of buildings.

Keywords : buckling restrained brace (brb) seismic behavior energy dissipation ductility lateral displacement seismic retrofitting