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Abstract

This thesis is concerned with the response of multi-story prestressed concrete frames to seismic loading, and the ductility demands of the constituent members. In that regard, an idealized model for the end moment-plastic rotation relationship of prestressed concrete members was developed based on a published moment-curvature idealization for prestressed concrete. The idealized moment-rotation model, which included stiffness and strength degradation, was used to introduce all post-elastic action In a beam-column element, which consisted of an elastic beam connecting concentrated hinges modeled as nonlinear rotational springs. The subsequent use of the element in the nonlinear analysis of a typical multi-story prestressed concrete frame indicated that both the lateral displacements, and the girder end rotational and hinge curvature ductilities would be somewhat higher for a prestressed concrete frame than for a reinforced concrete frame with the same initial stiffness and strength. As an effort to limit deflections, and minimize member damage under moderate seismic loading the use of a higher base shear for a prestressed concrete structure than for a comparable reinforced concrete structure appears warranted.