A nonlinear multi-parameter model for predicting floor acceleration amplification across diverse structural systems

Non-structural components represent a major portion of building investment and experience significant damage during earthquakes, leading to functional loss and economic costs. This study develops a nonlinear multi-parameter model to predict floor acceleration amplification (FAA, defined as the ratio of peak floor acceleration to peak ground acceleration), which is crucial for designing acceleration-sensitive non-structural elements. Incremental Dynamic Analysis was performed on diverse structural systems (reinforced concrete, steel, and steel-concrete composite structures) subjected to scaled ground motions. The research quantified the influence of relative height, fundamental period, strength ratio (representing ductility demand), and structural system type on FAA distribution. The proposed fundamental period, distinct from conventional code approaches relying solely on the relative height. Validated against 59 instrumented building records and compared with numerical simulations and existing models, the model demonstrated superior predictive accuracy across different structural fundamental periods, nonlinear states, and system types. This provides enhanced theoretical understanding and practical support for seismic design, addressing limitations in current code provisions for non-structural components.