Seismic Performance of Multi-Storey Buildings with Diaphragm Discontinuities: A Comparative Study of Different Opening Configurations

This research examines the seismic performance of high-rise reinforced concrete buildings with diaphragm discontinuities, focusing on the management implications of different floor opening configurations. Using ETABS software, a G+25 storey building was analysed with central, corner, elongated, and H-shaped openings under response spectrum analysis as per IS 1893 (Part 1):2016. Structural response was evaluated in terms of storey displacement, drift, and base shear. Results show that corner openings provide maximum stiffness, attracting higher base shear (100%) but maintaining the lowest drift (28% of centre). In contrast, centre openings reduce seismic demand (base shear ~95%) but increase drift (100%), reflecting flexibility at the cost of serviceability. Elongated and H-shaped openings achieved balanced behaviour between stiffness and flexibility. All cases satisfied IS 1893 drift limits (≤0.004h per storey), ensuring code compliance. Beyond structural performance, this study provides insights for construction technology management and risk mitigation, supporting decision-making in selecting optimal floor opening strategies for safe, economical, and resilient high-rise buildings.