CEN-TC250-SC8 N1141 prEN 1998-1-1 2021 ENQ

CEN/TC 250/SC 8 N 1141
CEN/TC 250/SC 8 "Eurocode 8: Earthquake resistance design of structures"

Secretariat: IPQ
Secretary: Correia António Mr
prEN_1998-1-1_2021_ENQ
Document type Related content Document date Expected action

Project / Draft 2022-01-11 INFO
Description
Version of prEN 1998-1-1:2021 submitted to TC 250 for preparation to ENQ stage
CEN/TC 250
Date: 2021-11
prEN 1998-1-1:2021
Secretariat: BSI
Eurocode 8 — Design of structures for earthquake resistance —Part 1-

1: General rules and seismic action
Einführendes Element — Haupt-Element — Ergänzendes Element
Élément introductif — Élément central — Élément complémentaire
ICS:
prEN 1998-5:2021 (E)
Contents Page
European foreword ...................................................................................................................................................... 6

Introduction .................................................................................................................................................................... 7
0.1 Introduction to the Eurocodes ................................................................................................................... 7
0.2 Introduction to EN 1998 Eurocode 8 ....................................................................................................... 7
0.3 Introduction to EN 1998-1-1 ....................................................................................................................... 8
0.4 Verbal forms used in the Eurocodes ........................................................................................................ 8
0.5 National annex for EN 1998-1-1 ................................................................................................................ 8
1 Scope.................................................................................................................................................................... 9
1.1 Scope of EN 1998 ............................................................................................................................................. 9
1.2 Scope of EN 1998-1-1 ..................................................................................................................................... 9
1.3 Further Parts of EN 1998............................................................................................................................ 10
1.4 Assumptions ................................................................................................................................................... 10
2 Normative references.................................................................................................................................. 10
3 Terms, definitions and symbols .............................................................................................................. 11
3.1 Terms and definitions ................................................................................................................................. 11
3.1.1 General.............................................................................................................................................................. 11
3.1.2 11
3.1.3 11
3.1.4 11
3.1.5 11
3.1.6 11
3.1.7 12
3.1.8 12
3.1.9 12
3.1.10 12
3.1.11 12
3.1.12 12
3.1.13 12
3.1.14 12
3.1.15 13
3.1.16 13
3.1.17 13
3.1.18 13
3.1.19 13
3.1.20 13
3.1.21 13
3.1.22 14
3.1.23 14
3.1.24 14
3.1.25 14
3.1.26 14
3.1.27 14
3.1.28 14
3.1.29 15
3.1.30 15
3.1.31 15
2
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
3.1.32 15
3.1.33 15
3.1.34 15
3.1.35 15
3.1.36 16
3.1.37 16
3.1.38 16
3.1.39 16
3.1.40 16
3.2 Symbols and abbreviations ....................................................................................................................... 16
3.2.1 General ............................................................................................................................................................. 16
3.2.2 Symbols ............................................................................................................................................................ 17
3.2.3 Abbreviations................................................................................................................................................. 27
3.3 S.I. Units ............................................................................................................................................................ 28
4 Basis of design ............................................................................................................................................... 29
4.1 Performance requirements ...................................................................................................................... 29
4.2 Consequence classes.................................................................................................................................... 30
4.3 Limit states and associated seismic action .......................................................................................... 30
4.4 Primary and secondary members .......................................................................................................... 31
4.5 Compliance criteria for new structures ............................................................................................... 32
4.5.1 General ............................................................................................................................................................. 32
4.5.2 Design verification principles .................................................................................................................. 32
5 Site conditions and seismic action ......................................................................................................... 33
5.1 Site conditions ............................................................................................................................................... 33
5.1.1 General ............................................................................................................................................................. 33
5.1.2 Site categorisation ........................................................................................................................................ 33
5.2 Seismic action ................................................................................................................................................ 35
5.2.1 Spectral acceleration maps ....................................................................................................................... 35
5.2.2 Spectral acceleration maps ....................................................................................................................... 37
5.2.3 Alternative representations of the seismic action ........................................................................... 43
6 Modelling, analysis and verification ...................................................................................................... 44
6.1 General ............................................................................................................................................................. 44
6.2 Modelling ......................................................................................................................................................... 45
6.2.1 General ............................................................................................................................................................. 45
6.2.2 Additional modelling rules for linear analysis .................................................................................. 46
6.2.3 Additional modelling rules for non-linear analysis ......................................................................... 46
6.3 Seismic action ................................................................................................................................................ 46
6.4 Force-based approach................................................................................................................................. 47
6.4.1 Reduced spectrum for the force-based approach ............................................................................. 47
6.4.2 Lateral force method ................................................................................................................................... 49
6.4.3 Response spectrum method ..................................................................................................................... 49
6.4.4 Combination of the effects of the components of the seismic action ......................................... 51
6.5 Non-linear static analysis .......................................................................................................................... 51
6.5.1 General ............................................................................................................................................................. 51
6.5.2 Lateral loads and capacity curve............................................................................................................. 52
6.5.3 Equivalent SDOF system ............................................................................................................................. 53
6.5.4 Target displacement .................................................................................................................................... 54
6.6 Response-history analysis......................................................................................................................... 56
6.7 Verification to limit states ......................................................................................................................... 56
6.7.1 General ............................................................................................................................................................. 56
3
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
6.7.2 Verifications to Significant Damage limit state .................................................................................. 57

6.7.3 Verifications to additional limit states.................................................................................................. 58
6.8 Structures equipped with antiseismic devices .................................................................................. 59
6.8.1 Scope.................................................................................................................................................................. 59
6.8.2 Basis of design for structures equipped with antiseismic devices ............................................. 59
6.8.3 Seismic action................................................................................................................................................. 62
6.8.4 Modelling ......................................................................................................................................................... 63
6.8.5 Analysis of structures equipped with antiseismic devices ............................................................ 64
6.8.6 Verifications of antiseismic devices to limit states .......................................................................... 66
7 Deformation criteria and strength models.......................................................................................... 67
7.1 General.............................................................................................................................................................. 67
7.2 Reinforced concrete structures ............................................................................................................... 69
7.2.1 General.............................................................................................................................................................. 69
7.2.2 Deformation criteria.................................................................................................................................... 69
7.2.3 Resistance to shear....................................................................................................................................... 74
7.2.4 Resistance of beam-column joints .......................................................................................................... 75
7.3 Steel and composite steel-concrete structures .................................................................................. 80
7.3.1 General.............................................................................................................................................................. 80
7.3.2 Beams and columns under flexure with or without axial load .................................................... 81
7.3.3 Steel bracings ................................................................................................................................................. 87
7.3.4 Beam-to-column web panel joint ............................................................................................................ 89
7.3.5 Links in frames with eccentric bracings ............................................................................................... 91
7.3.6 Buckling restrained bracings ................................................................................................................... 92
7.4 Timber structures......................................................................................................................................... 93
Annex A (informative) European hazard maps............................................................................................... 94
A.1 Use of this annex ........................................................................................................................................... 94
A.2 Scope.................................................................................................................................................................. 94
Annex B (normative) Alternative identification of site categories .......................................................... 97
B.1 Use of this normative annex...................................................................................................................... 97
B.2 Scope and field of application .................................................................................................................. 97
B.3 Simplified identification of site categories .......................................................................................... 97
B.4 Case of incomplete quantitative information for identification of site categories ............... 98
B.4.1 Missing direct measurements of vs or values available only to a limited depth .................... 98
B.4.2 Missing quantitative information on H800 ............................................................................................ 98
Annex C (normative) Site-specific elastic response spectra.................................................................... 100
C.1 Use of this annex ........................................................................................................................................ 100
C.2 Scope and field of application ............................................................................................................... 100
C.3 Site-specific elastic response spectra based on a local seismic hazard analysis ................ 100
C.4 Site-specific elastic response spectra based on evaluation of local seismic wave
amplification effects ................................................................................................................................. 100
C.5 Limitations on site-specific spectral values ..................................................................................... 101
Annex D (normative) Criteria for selection and scaling of input motions ......................................... 102
D.1 Use of this annex ........................................................................................................................................ 102
D.2 Scope and field of application ............................................................................................................... 102
D.3 Recorded accelerograms ......................................................................................................................... 102
D.4 Multiple input motions using recorded accelerograms............................................................... 103
D.5 Simulated accelerograms ........................................................................................................................ 104
D.6 Artificial accelerograms .......................................................................................................................... 104
4
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Annex E (normative) Determination of target displacement and limit-state spectral

acceleration by using non-linear response-history analyses of an equivalent SDOF
model ............................................................................................................................................................. 105
E.1 Use of this annex ........................................................................................................................................ 105
E.2 Scope and field of application ............................................................................................................... 105
E.3 Definition of a multi-linear equivalent SDOF model ..................................................................... 105
E.4 Determination of the target displacement through non-linear response-history
analyses ......................................................................................................................................................... 107
E.5 Determination of the limit-state spectral acceleration through non-linear response-
history analyses ......................................................................................................................................... 107
Annex F (informative) Simplified reliability-based verification format ............................................ 108
F.1 Use of this annex ........................................................................................................................................ 108
F.2 Scope .............................................................................................................................................................. 108
F.3 Reliability-based verification................................................................................................................ 108
Annex G (normative) Design of fastenings to concrete in the seismic design situation ............... 111
G.1 Use of this annex ........................................................................................................................................ 111
G.2 Scope and field of application ............................................................................................................... 111
G.3 Basis of design ............................................................................................................................................ 112
G.4 Resistance..................................................................................................................................................... 116
G.5 Displacement of fasteners ...................................................................................................................... 118
Annex M (normative) Material or product properties in EN 1998-1-1 ............................................... 120
M.1 Use of this annex ........................................................................................................................................ 120
M.2 Scope and field of application ............................................................................................................... 120
Bibliography .............................................................................................................................................................. 121
5
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
European foreword
This document (prEN 1998-1-1:2021) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 250
“Structural Eurocodes”, the secretariat of which is held by BSI. CEN/TC 250 is responsible for all
Structural Eurocodes and has been assigned responsibility for structural and geotechnical design
matters by CEN.
This document will supersede EN 1998-1:2004.
The first generation of EN Eurocodes was published between 2002 and 2007. This document forms part
of the second generation of the Eurocodes, which have been prepared under Mandate M/515 issued to
CEN by the European Commission and the European Free Trade Association.
The Eurocodes have been drafted to be used in conjunction with relevant execution, material, product
and test standards, and to identify requirements for execution, materials, products and testing that are
relied upon by the Eurocodes.
The Eurocodes recognise the responsibility of each Member State and have safeguarded their right to
determine values related to regulatory safety matters at national level through the use of National
Annexes.
6
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Introduction
0.1 Introduction to the Eurocodes
The Structural Eurocodes comprise the following standards generally consisting of a number of Parts:
• EN 1990 Eurocode: Basis of structural and geotechnical design
• EN 1991 Eurocode 1: Actions on structures
• EN 1992 Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures
• EN 1993 Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures
• EN 1994 Eurocode 4: Design of composite steel and concrete structures
• EN 1995 Eurocode 5: Design of timber structures
• EN 1996 Eurocode 6: Design of masonry structures
• EN 1997 Eurocode 7: Geotechnical design
• EN 1998 Eurocode 8: Design of structures for earthquake resistance
• EN 1999 Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures
The Eurocodes are intended for use by designers, clients, manufacturers, constructors, relevant
authorities (in exercising their duties in accordance with national or international regulations),
educators, software developers, and committees drafting standards for related product, testing and
execution standards.
NOTE Some aspects of design are most appropriately specified by relevant authorities or, where not specified,
can be agreed on a project-specific basis between relevant parties such as designers and clients. The Eurocodes
identify such aspects making explicit reference to relevant authorities and relevant parties.
0.2 Introduction to EN 1998 Eurocode 8
The scope of EN 1998 is to define the rules for the seismic design of new buildings and engineering
works and the assessment and retrofit of existing ones, including geotechnical aspects, as well as
temporary structures.
Attention must be paid to the fact that, for the design of structures in seismic regions, the provisions of
EN 1998 should be applied in addition to the relevant provisions of EN 1990 to EN 1997 and EN 1999.
By nature, perfect protection (a null seismic risk) against earthquakes is not feasible in practice, in
particular because the knowledge of the hazard itself is characterised by a significant uncertainty.
Therefore, in Eurocode 8, the seismic action is represented in a conventional form, proportional in
amplitude to earthquakes likely to occur at a given location and representative of their frequency
content. This representation is not the prediction of a particular seismic movement, and such a
movement could give rise to more severe effects than those of the seismic action considered, inflicting
damage greater than the one described by the Limit States contemplated in this Standard.
Not only the seismic action cannot be predicted but, in addition, it should be recognised that
engineering methods are not perfectly predictive when considering the effects of this specific action,
under which structures are assumed to respond in the non-linear regime. Such uncertainties are taken
into account according to the general framework of EN 1990, with a residual risk of underestimation of
their effects.
7
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
0.3 Introduction to EN 1998-1-1
EN 1998-1-1 contains general requirements for all types of structures for earthquake resistant design,
including definition of the seismic action and the description of the methods of analysis and verification,
in general terms.
Nevertheless, the definition of the seismic action allows adaptation to a local specific seismic context
through Nationally Determined Parameters (NDP) defined by the National Authorities or in the
National Annex or through a site-specific description.
0.4 Verbal forms used in the Eurocodes
The verb “shall” expresses a requirement strictly to be followed and from which no deviation is
permitted in order to comply with the Eurocodes.
The verb “should” expresses a highly recommended choice or course of action. Subject to national
regulation and/or any relevant contractual provisions, alternative approaches could be used/adopted
where technically justified.
The verb “may" expresses a course of action permissible within the limits of the Eurocodes.
The verb “can" expresses possibility and capability; it is used for statements of fact and clarification of
concepts.
0.5 National annex for EN 1998-1-1
National choice is allowed in this document where explicitly stated within notes. National choice
includes the selection of values for Nationally Determined Parameters (NDPs).
The national standard implementing EN 1998-1-1 can have a National Annex containing all national
choices to be used for the design of buildings and civil engineering works to be constructed in the
relevant country.
When no national choice is given, the default choice given in this document is to be used.
When no national choice is made and no default is given in this document, the choice can be specified by
a relevant authority or, where not specified, agreed for a specific project by appropriate parties.
National choice is allowed in EN 1998-1-1 through notes to the following:
1.1(2) 4.1(6) 4.1(8) 4.5.1(2)
5.2.1(1) 5.2.1(3) 5.2.1(4) 5.2.1(5)
5.2.2.2(2) 5.2.2.2(9) 5.2.2.5(2) F.3(1)
G.4(1)
National choice is allowed in EN 1998-1-1 on the application of the following informative annexes:
Annex A Annex F
The National Annex can contain, directly or by reference, non-contradictory complementary
information for ease of implementation, provided it does not alter any provisions of the Eurocodes.
8
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
1 Scope
1.1 Scope of EN 1998
(1) EN 1998 shall be applied to the design of new buildings and other structures and the assessment
and retrofit of existing ones, including geotechnical aspects, and temporary structures.
NOTE This standard also covers the verification of structures in the seismic situation during construction,
when required.
(2) EN 1998 should be applied to structures of consequence classes CC1, CC2 and CC3, as defined in
EN 1990:2020, 4.3.
NOTE The categories of structures of consequence class CC4 where EN 1998, or parts of it, apply in a country
can be provided by the relevant Authorities or can be found in the National Annex.
(3) EN 1998 contains only those provisions that, in addition to the provisions of the other relevant
Eurocodes, shall be observed for the design of new and assessment of existing structures in seismic
regions.
NOTE EN 1998 complements in this respect the other Eurocodes.
(4) EN 1998 is subdivided into various separate Parts (see 1.2).
1.2 Scope of EN 1998-1-1
(1) EN 1998-1-1 should be applied to the design and verification of buildings and other structures in
seismic regions. It is subdivided in seven clauses. Clauses 4 to 7 give general rules relevant to all types
of structures, with the exception of special structures.
NOTE Special structures belong to consequence class CC4, which is not fully covered by the Eurocodes.
(2) Clause 4 contains the basic performance requirements and compliance criteria applicable to
buildings and civil engineering works in seismic regions.
(3) Clause 5 gives the rules for the representation of seismic actions and the description of the design
seismic situations. Certain types of structures, dealt with in other parts of EN 1998, need
supplementary rules which are given in those relevant Parts.
(4) Clause 6 contains general methods for structural analysis and verification under seismic actions,
including base-isolated structures and structures with distributed dissipative systems.
(5) Clause 7 contains rules for modelling and verification of ultimate strengths and deformations.
(6) The following annexes are included in EN 1998-1-1, where Annexes B to E and G are normative
and Annexes A and F are informative:
− Annex A: European hazard maps;
− Annex B: Alternative identification of site categories;
− Annex C: Site-specific elastic response spectra;
− Annex D: Criteria for selection and scaling of input motions;
− Annex E: Determination of target displacement and limit-state spectral acceleration by using a
non-linear response-history analysis of an equivalent SDOF model;
− Annex F: Simplified reliability-based verification format;
− Annex G: Design of fastenings to concrete in the seismic design situation.
9
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
1.3 Further Parts of EN 1998
(1) Further Parts of EN 1998 include, in addition to EN 1998-1-1, the following:

− EN 1998-1-2 contains specific provisions relevant to buildings;
− EN 1998-2 contains specific provisions relevant to bridges;
− EN 1998-3 contains provisions for the seismic assessment and retrofitting of existing buildings
and bridges;
− EN 1998-4 contains specific provisions relevant to silos, tanks, pipelines, towers, masts and
chimneys;
− EN 1998-5 contains specific provisions relevant to foundations, retaining structures and
geotechnical aspects.
1.4 Assumptions
(1) The general assumptions of prEN 1990:2020, 1.2, are supplemented as given in (2) to (6).
(2) It is assumed that no change in the structure and in the masses carried by the structure will take
place during the construction phase or during the subsequent life of the structure with respect to the
design unless proper justification and verification is provided. This applies to ancillary elements as well
(see 3.1.2). Due to the specific nature of the seismic response, this applies even in the case of changes
that lead to an increase of the structural resistance.
(3) The design documents should indicate the sizes, the details and the properties of the materials of
the structural members. If appropriate, the design documents should also include the properties of
special devices to be used and the distances between structural and ancillary elements. The necessary
quality control provisions should also be given.
(4) Members of special structural importance requiring special checking during construction should
be identified on the design documents. In this case, the verification methods to be used should also be
specified.
(5) In case of high seismic action class (4.1.1(4)), formal quality system plans, covering design,
construction, and use, additional to the control procedures prescribed in the other relevant Eurocodes,
should be used.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 1990, Eurocode 0: Basis of structural and geotechnical design
EN 1991 (all parts), Eurocode 1: Actions on structures
EN 1992 (all parts), Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures
EN 1993 (all parts), Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures
EN 1994 (all parts), Eurocode 4: Design of composite steel and concrete structure
EN 1995 (all parts), Design of timber structures
EN 1996 (all parts), Design of masonry structures
EN 1997 (all parts), Eurocode 7: Geotechnical design
10
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
EN 1998 (all parts), Eurocode 8: Design of structures for earthquake resistance

EN 1999 (all parts), Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures
ISO 80000, The international system of units (SI) and its application
3 Terms, definitions and symbols

3.1 Terms and definitions
3.1.1 General
(1) The terms and definitions given in prEN 1990:2020, 3.1, should be applied.
(2) Additional terms in 3.1.2 to 3.1.40 should be used in the different parts of EN 1998 with the
corresponding meanings.
3.1.2
ancillary element
architectural, mechanical or electrical element, system and component which, whether due to lack of
strength or to the way it is connected to the structure, is not considered in seismic design as load
carrying element but may be the cause of risk to persons or to the structure in case of earthquake.
3.1.3
antiseismic devices
devices which contribute to modify the seismic response of a structure by isolating it, by dissipating
energy or by creating permanent or temporary restraints via rigid connections.
NOTE The devices considered in EN 1998 are those covered in EN 1337: Structural bearings and those
covered in EN 15129: Antiseismic devices.
3.1.4
bearings
devices that support vertical loads and do not modify the natural period of the structure nor its
dissipating energy.
3.1.5
behaviour factor
factor used for design purposes to reduce the forces obtained from a linear analysis, to account for the
overstrength as well as for the non-linear response of a structure, associated with the material, the
structural system and the design procedures.
3.1.6
capacity design method

design method in which members of the structural system are chosen and suitably designed and
detailed for energy dissipation under severe deformations while all other structural members are
provided with sufficient strength so that the chosen means of energy dissipation can be maintained.
11
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
3.1.7
design displacement (of the isolation system in a principal direction)

maximum horizontal displacement at the effective stiffness centre between the top of the substructure
and the bottom of the superstructure, occurring in the design seismic situation.
3.1.8
displacement-based approach
a displacement-based approach is a design method that explicitly accounts for the strength and
deformation capacity of the structure, in most cases considering its non-linear response and uses
verifications in terms of displacements or deformations.
NOTE In EN 1998, the displacement-based approach is implemented in the form of a non-linear static
procedure based on a pushover analysis.
3.1.9
dissipative structure
structure which can dissipate energy by means of ductile hysteretic behaviour and/or by other
mechanisms.
3.1.10
dissipative zones
predetermined parts of a dissipative structure where the dissipative capabilities are mainly located.
NOTE These are also called critical regions.
3.1.11
dynamically independent unit

structure or part of a structure which is directly subjected to the ground motion and whose response is
not affected by the response of adjacent units or structures.
3.1.12
effective damping (of the isolation system in a principal direction)

value of the viscous damping that corresponds to the energy dissipated by the isolation system during
cyclic response at the design displacement.
3.1.13
effective period (of the isolation system in a principal direction)

fundamental period, in the direction considered, of a single degree of freedom system having the mass
of the superstructure and stiffness equal to the effective stiffness of the isolation system.
3.1.14
effective stiffness (of the isolation system in a principal direction)

ratio of the value of the total horizontal force transferred through the isolation interface when the
design displacement takes place in the same direction, to the absolute value of that design displacement
(see 3.1.7). This corresponds to the secant stiffness associated to the design displacement.
NOTE The effective stiffness is generally obtained by iterative dynamic analysis.
12
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
3.1.15
effective stiffness centre of the isolation system

stiffness centre calculated at the upper face of the isolation interface, i.e. including the flexibility of the
isolators and of the substructure(s).
NOTE In buildings, tanks and similar structures, the flexibility of the substructure may often be neglected in
the determination of this point, which then coincides with the stiffness centre of the isolators.
3.1.16
energy dissipation device

disposable element of the energy dissipation system that dissipates energy caused by relative motion of
each end of the device and does not form part of the main structural system.
3.1.17
energy dissipation system

collection of structural members that includes all the energy dissipation devices and all structural
members required to transfer the forces from the energy dissipation devices to the main structural
system and to the base of the structure. It includes also all pins, bolts, gusset plates, brace extensions
and other components required to connect the energy dissipation devices to other elements of the
structure.
3.1.18
force-based approach
a force-based method of design which employs a linear analysis that implicitly accounts for the
overstrength and the non-linear response through a behaviour factor and verifications in terms of
forces. In EN 1998 it is implemented in the form of a static lateral force method or a dynamic response
spectrum method.
3.1.19
full isolation
the superstructure is fully isolated if, in the seismic design situation, it remains within the elastic range.
Otherwise, the superstructure is partially isolated.
3.1.20
isolation system
collection of isolators used for providing seismic isolation, which are arranged within the isolation
interface.
NOTE These are usually located below the main mass of the structure.
3.1.21
isolators
devices constituting the isolation system.
13
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
NOTE The devices considered in EN 1998-1-1 consist of laminated elastomeric bearings, elastoplastic devices,
viscous or friction dampers, sliders with a spherical surface and other devices the behaviour of which conforms to
6.8.2.4.
3.1.22
main structural system

in structures equipped with energy dissipation systems, collection of primary and secondary seismic
members and their connections designed and detailed to maintain support of the gravity loading when
subjected to the displacements caused by the most unfavourable seismic design condition.
NOTE 1 The primary seismic members of the main structural system form part of the seismic action resisting
system. They provide strength and stiffness. They can also contribute to dissipation of energy through inelastic
response.
NOTE 2 The main structural system and the energy dissipation system may have common structural members.
3.1.23
non-dissipative structure
structure designed for a seismic design situation solely relying on the linear elastic material behaviour.
3.1.24
performance factor
factor that accounts concurrently for the consequence class of a structure and the limit state under
consideration.
3.1.25
primary structure
the set of structural members which can resist seismic action on their own.
3.1.26
primary seismic member

structural member considered as part of the primary structure, modelled in the analysis for the seismic
design situation and fully designed and detailed for earthquake resistance in accordance with the
corresponding rules of EN 1998.
3.1.27
reduced spectrum
a spectrum that is derived from the elastic response spectrum by applying a behaviour factor, to be
used in the framework of the force-based approach.
3.1.28
reference seismic action

seismic action associated to the Significant Damage limit state for consequence class CC2.
14
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
3.1.29
resistant structural member

a structural member the resistance of which is not lower than the action effects in the seismic design
situation.
3.1.30
resistance
the resistance of a structural member is the (generalised) force or (generalised) deformation it can
sustain without exceeding a prescribed limit state.
3.1.31
secondary seismic member

structural member which is not considered as part of the primary system and whose resistance and
stiffness against seismic actions is neglected.
NOTE 1 They are not required to comply with all the rules of EN 1998 but are designed and detailed to maintain
support of gravity loads when subjected to the displacements caused by the seismic design situation.
NOTE 2 Secondary seismic members can contribute to the lateral load resistance of the system in case of second
order effects (e.g. in the case of hinged columns).
3.1.32
seismic action class

interval of seismic action intensity used to establish the applicability of simplified methods and ductility
classes. It accounts for site amplification, due to topography and site category, as well as for
consequence class.
3.1.33
seismic action index

spectral acceleration based on seismic hazard and safety choices used to define seismic action classes.
3.1.34
specific seismic hazard studies

investigations and subsequent studies that are carried out for a given site in order to obtain information
about the seismic action at the site which is more detailed than the one provided by spectral
acceleration maps.
3.1.35
stable site
site that is not affected by ground rupture, slope instability and/or permanent settlements caused by
liquefaction or significant densification under the considered seismic action.
15
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
3.1.36
structure with energy dissipation systems

structure composed of a main structural system and of an energy dissipation system working in
parallel.
3.1.37
substructure(s)
part(s) of the structure located under the isolation interface.
3.1.38
superstructure
part of the structure located above the isolation interface.
3.1.39
total design displacement (of an isolator in a principal direction)

maximum horizontal displacement at the location of the isolator, including that due to the design
displacement and to the global rotation due to torsion about the vertical axis.
3.1.40
type of structures
set of structures that are addressed by a given Part of EN 1998. The considered types of structures are:
− buildings;
− bridges;
− silos;
− tanks;
− pipelines;
− geotechnical structures and systems;
− underground structures;
− towers;
− masts;
− chimneys.
3.2 Symbols and abbreviations

3.2.1 General
(1) The symbols and abbreviations listed in EN 1990:2020, 3.2, should be applied.
(2) For the symbols related to materials, as well as for symbols not specifically related to the seismic
design situation, the provisions of the relevant Eurocodes should be applied.
(3) Further symbols and abbreviations, used in connection with seismic actions, are defined in the
present standard where they occur, for ease of use. However, in addition, the most frequently occurring
16
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
symbols used in EN 1998-1-1 are listed and defined in 3.2.2 and additional abbreviations are given in
3.2.3.
3.2.2 Symbols
3.2.2.1 Symbols used in 4
3.2.2.1.1 Upper case Latin symbols
S Seismic action index

S,elas Limit of the seismic action index for a full elastic analysis
TLS,CC Return period associated to a given limit state LS and a given consequence class CC
TSD,2 Return period associated to significant damage (SD) limit state and consequence class CC2
3.2.2.1.2 Lower case Greek symbols
 Coefficient that specifies S depending on the consequence class

LS,CC Performance factor associated to a given limit state LS and a given consequence class CC
SD,2 Performance factor associated to significant damage limit state and consequence class CC2,
equal to 1 by definition
DR Duration of the strong part of a ground motion

FA Ratio of S with respect to the zero-period spectral acceleration
FL Long period site amplification factor
FT Topography amplification factor
F Short-period site amplification factor
F Intermediate period (T = T) site amplification factor
H Reference depth for calculation of vs,H. It coincides with H800 if H800 < 30 m, otherwise it is
equal to 30 m
H800 Depth of the bedrock formation identified by a shear wave velocity vs > 800 m/s
Lg,l Characteristic length, function of the site category of support l
Lkl Distance between supports k and l
Mw Earthquake magnitude, measured in the moment magnitude scale
N Number of layers in the soil deposit for calculation of vs,H
PGAe Design peak value of the horizontal ground acceleration
PGDe Design peak value of the horizontal ground displacement
PGDei Value of PGDe at site i for calculation of relative displacement between two sites
PGVe Design peak value of the horizontal ground velocity
17
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Se(T) Elastic response spectrum for the horizontal component of the seismic action
SDe(T) Elastic displacement response spectrum for the horizontal component of the seismic action
Sve(T) Elastic response spectrum for the vertical component of the seismic action
S Maximum response spectral acceleration (5% damping) corresponding to the constant
acceleration range of the horizontal elastic response spectrum
Sref Value of S on site category A and for the return period Tref
SRP Value of S on site category A and for a generic value of return period RP
S475 Value of S on site category A and for a return period of 475 years
Sv Maximum response spectral acceleration (5% damping) corresponding to the constant
acceleration range of the vertical elastic response spectrum
S Spectral acceleration (5% damping) at the vibration period T of the horizontal elastic
response spectrum
Sref Value of S on site category A and for the return period Tref
SRP Value of S on site category A and for a generic value of return period RP
Sv Spectral acceleration (5% damping) at the vibration period T of the vertical elastic
response spectrum
Sref,X,S,ref,X Values of S,ref and S,ref respectively, on a site X different than site category A
S,RP,X,S,RP,X Values of S,RP and S,RP respectively, on a site X different than site category A
T Vibration period of a linear single-degree-of-freedom system
TA Short-period cut-off associated to the zero-period spectral acceleration
TB Lower corner vibration period of the constant spectral acceleration range
TBv Lower corner vibration period of the constant spectral acceleration range for the vertical
component
TC Upper corner period of the constant spectral acceleration range
TC,X Value of TC on a site X different than site category A
TCv Upper corner period of the constant spectral acceleration range for the vertical component
TD Corner vibration period at the beginning of the first constant spectral displacement range
TE Corner vibration period at the end of the constant spectral displacement range
TF Vibration period beyond which the spectral displacement equals the peak ground
displacement
Tref Value of the reference return period, corresponding to the significant damage (SD) limit
state and to consequence class CC2
T Vibration period anchoring the elastic horizontal spectrum for flexible structures. Unless
otherwise specified, T = 1 s
3.2.2.2.2 Lower case Latin symbols
akl Factor for the evaluation of correlation coefficient kl between seismic action effects on
supports k and l
dij,max Maximum relative displacement of two sites at distance xij
18
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
dij,ld,max Maximum relative displacement of two sites at large distance

fh Ratio of S,ref to S,ref
fv Ratio of S,v to S
fv Ratio of S,v to S
hi Thickness of the i-th layer of the soil deposit
i Average slope angle of a topographic irregularity
k Factor for the evaluation of the relation between S,475/S,ref and 475/Tref
Lg,k Characteristic length function of the site category of support k
r Factor to account for non-linear site amplification effects on F
r Factor to account for non-linear site amplification effects on F
vs Propagation velocity of shear (S) waves, measured at low strain
vi Value of vs for the i-th layer of the soil deposit
vs,H Equivalent value of vs down to the reference depth H
vs,30 Equivalent value of vs in the upper 30 m of the soil deposit
xij Spatial distance between two sites
xL Normalisation distance for calculation of relative displacement between two sites
 Factor for the evaluation of corner period TB based on TC

 Damping correction factor for the elastic response spectrum, with a reference value  = 1
for 5% damping ratio 
 Equivalent viscous damping ratio of the structure
kl Correlation coefficient between action effects, when the seismic action is represented by a
set of response spectra, for every couple of supports with indices k and l
Ed Design value of the action effect in the seismic design situation, including possible influence
of second-order effects
ED Energy dissipated by the antiseismic devices
EDi Energy dissipated by antiseismic device i
EE, EEi Maximum value of a seismic action effect (force, displacement, etc.) and value of this
seismic action effect due to vibration mode i, respectively
EEdx, EEdy Action effect due to the application of the seismic action along the chosen horizontal axis x
of the structure and action effect due to the application of the same seismic action along the
orthogonal horizontal axis y of the structure
EEdz Action effect due to the application of the vertical component of the design seismic action
19
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Es Reversibly stored energy (elastic strain energy and potential energy) of the structure
including the isolation system
E* Area under the transformed capacity curve 𝐹 ∗ (𝑑∗ ) up to the point (𝑑m
∗
, 𝐹m∗ ) of the equivalent
SDOF system in pushover analysis
F* Equivalent force in the equivalent SDOF system in pushover analysis
Fm* Force at the last point on the curve 𝐹 ∗ (𝑑∗ ) or the point of maximum force of the equivalent
Fy* Yield force obtained by bilinearisation of the force-deformation relationship of the
equivalent SDOF system in pushover analysis
T* Is the equivalent period of the equivalent SDOF system in pushover analysis
F0 Force at zero displacement of the isolation system under cyclic loading without including
the contribution of velocity-dependent devices
Fb Total shear force in pushover analysis
Fi Pushover lateral force in the direction under consideration at i-th node
Gk,j Permanent gravity loads as appearing in the seismic design situation
KP Post-elastic (tangent) stiffness of the isolation system
Md Mass of the rigid superstructure of an isolation system
Qk,i Variable gravity loads as appearing in the seismic design situation
Rd Design value of resistance corresponding to the design action effect Ed
Rq(T) Reduction factor that establishes the reduced design spectrum
Rq0 Value of Rq(T) associated to the zero-period spectral acceleration
Sr(T) Reduced design spectrum in the horizontal direction
Svr(T) Reduced design spectrum in the vertical direction
Sy Yield acceleration of the equivalent SDOF model
T1 fundamental period of the structure in the considered direction
Ti Period of vibration of mode i
TSSI Value of T resulting from an analysis accounting for soil-structure interaction (SSI) effects
Keff Effective stiffness of a base-isolated structure
Teff Effective period of a base-isolated structure
̅𝑖
𝐹 Pattern of the pushover forces
VR Design resistance of brittle mechanisms
VR,SD Resistance of brittle mechanisms at SD limit state
cdt Correction factor to be applied to the target displacement to account for a transverse
participation of the mode considered
ddb Design displacement of the equivalent linear model of an isolation system in the seismic
situation, including x
dEd Seismic displacement of the isolation system in the considered direction
20
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
ds, dr Displacement of a point of the structural system induced by the design seismic action and
calculated displacement of the same point of the structural system under the reduced
spectrum associated to the design seismic action, respectively
dn Control displacement in pushover analysis
𝑑u Is the value of the control displacement when the ultimate local deformation is attained in a
ductile post-elastic mechanism, or due to brittle failure or instability when this occurs first,
in any member
d* Equivalent displacement of the equivalent SDOF system in pushover analysis
dt* Target displacement in pushover analysis
det* Target displacement of the equivalent SDOF model with unlimited elastic behaviour
dm* Displacement corresponding to Fm* of the equivalent SDOF system in pushover analysis
du* Ultimate displacement considered in the force-displacement relationship of the equivalent
dy* Yield displacement obtained by bilinearisation of the force-deformation relationship of the
equivalent SDOF system in pushover analysis
dSD* Displacement of the equivalent SDOF oscillator that corresponds to the attainment of SD
limit state
k* Stiffness of the equivalent SDOF system in pushover analysis
mi Effective mass of the i-th node
m* Mass of the equivalent SDOF system in pushover analysis
q Behaviour factor in the horizontal direction
qdisp Displacement behaviour factor
qD Behaviour factor component accounting for the deformation capacity and energy
dissipation capacity of a fixed-base structure
qD,SSI Value of qD to be used in an analysis accounting for SSI effects
qR Behaviour factor component accounting for overstrength due to the redistribution of
seismic action effects in redundant structures
qS Behaviour factor component accounting for overstrength due to all other sources
qv Behaviour factor in the vertical direction
rij Correlation factor in modal combination
u Force reduction factor in pushover analysis
3.2.2.3.3 Upper case Greek symbols
 Transformation factor between a MDOF system and the equivalent SDOF system
’ Value of  denoting the modal participation factor of the mode in the direction orthogonal
to the one under consideration
 Pushover loading factor used to modulate the amplitude of the pushover forces
21
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
ij Factor for the evaluation of rij: ij = (Ti – Tj)/(Ti + Tj)
SD,d Portion of the plastic part of the displacement of the equivalent SDOF oscillator that
corresponds to the attainment of SD limit state
SD, Portion of the plastic part of the ultimate chord rotation that corresponds to the attainment
of SD limit state
 Lower bound factor for the horizontal reduced design spectrum
i Displacement value of mode  at the i-th node in the considered direction of seismic action
n Displacement value of mode  at the control node in the considered direction of seismic
action in pushover analysis
Rd,NC,d Partial factor on displacement capacity at NC limit state
Rd,NC, Partial factor on plastic mechanism resistance at NC limit state
Rd,NC,V Partial factor on brittle mechanism resistance at NC limit state
Rd,SD,d Partial factor on displacement capacity at SD limit state
Rd,SD, Partial factor on plastic mechanism resistance at SD limit state
Rd,SD,V Partial factor on brittle mechanism resistance at SD limit state
x Amplification factor for antiseismic devices
s Deformation parameter associated to a plastic mechanism in state s
 NC Value of s that corresponds to the attainment of NC limit state
 SD Value of s that corresponds to the attainment of SD limit state
u Ultimate capacity value of s
 upl Plastic part of ultimate capacity value of s
y Value of s at yielding
 Chord rotation of frames
d Additional amplification factor for antiseismic devices introduced to cope with cumulative
displacements
ij Factor for the evaluation of rij: ij = Ti/Tj
i, j Damping ratios corresponding to vibration modes i and j
eff Effective damping of a base-isolated structure
E,i Combination coefficients taking into account the likelihood of the loads Qk,i not being
present over the entire structure during the earthquake
A Cross-sectional area of steel brace

Ac Cross-sectional area of the steel column
Aeff Effective shear area of the steel cross section
Acorenet Yielding zone of the BRB core
22
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Aw Web area of the steel cross section

Asw Area of one layer of transverse reinforcement in the direction of shear
D Diameter of circular sections
Do Centreline diameter of circular hoop
EI Cross-sectional rigidity (effective flexural stiffness) of steel (or composite steel-concrete)
beams and steel columns
G Shear modulus of steel
K Factor for the evaluation of confined concrete characteristics fcc and εc0,c
Ke Elastic stiffness (= Q*y/ y); axial stiffness of a BRB
L Assumed clear member length
L0 Shear span of the steel beam
Lb Unbraced length of the steel beam
Lpl Plastic hinge length
LV Shear span of a frame (= moment/shear at the end section, i.e. length to the point of
contraflexure)
LVl Value of LV on the left side of the point of contraflexure of a frame
LVr Value of LV on the right side of the point of contraflexure of a frame
MRk Characteristic flexural resistance of the steel beam for strong axis bending
Mpl Full plastic flexural resistance of the web panel
M*u Effective flexural resistance at ultimate conditions of the steel beam
M*u+ Effective flexural resistance at ultimate conditions of the composite steel-concrete beam
under sagging
M*u- Effective flexural resistance at ultimate conditions of the composite steel-concrete beam
under hogging
M*y Effective flexural resistance at yield of a steel beam
M*y+ Effective flexural resistance at yield of the composite steel-concrete beam under sagging
N Axial force, positive for compression
Nb,compr Number of bars near the extreme compression fibres
Nb,Rd Buckling resistance of steel brace
NEd,G Axial load demand of the column due to non-seismic actions in the seismic design situation
NEd Compressive or tensile axial force of the steel column
Npl,e Expected axial yield resistance of a steel column or bracings
Nut, Nuc Effective axial resistance at ultimate conditions of the steel brace in tension; compression
N*y Effective axial resistance at yield of the yielding zone of the BRB core
Q*u Effective ultimate resistance
Q*v Yield resistance of steel and composite steel-concrete structure members
23
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Q*y Effective yield resistance

V Effective shear resistance at yield of an EBF link
Vy Shear resistance at yield of a web panel
cdt Correction factor to be applied to the target displacement to account for a transverse
participation of the mode considered
ddb Design displacement of the equivalent linear model of an isolation system in the seismic
situation, including x
a* Effective hardening ratio of a structural steel column under flexure
aV z Tension shift of the bending moment diagram (aV = 1 if shear cracking is expected to
precede flexural yielding at the end section, = 0 otherwise)
bo and ho Confined core dimensions to the centreline of the perimeter bar
b Width of the compression zone
bi Centreline spacing of longitudinal bars (indexed by i) laterally restrained by a stirrup
corner or hook along the perimeter of the cross-section
bf Flange width of I-shaped steel cross-section
bw Width of the steel cross-section of one web (even in box-sections with more than one
parallel webs) which is perpendicular to the direction of shear
c Web depth of I-shaped steel cross-section
d and d' Depths to the tension and compression reinforcement, respectively, for concrete sections;
depth of the edge of the respective HSS steel cross-section parallel to the direction of the
seismic action
dbL (mean) diameter of the tension reinforcement
e Length of link beam
fc Concrete mean compressive strength (in MPa)
fcc Confined concrete compressive strength
fy Longitudinal bar mean yield strength or nominal yield stress of the steel material of the
steel beam or column (in MPa)
fym Structural steel members mean strength
fyw Stirrup mean yield strength (in MPa)
h Depth of the (unspalled) concrete section or full depth of the steel cross-section
h0 Depth of confined core section
hb Steel beam depth
hrib Depth of the ribbed cross-section of the steel deck
iz Radius of gyration of a steel cross-section with respect to its weak axis
l0 Lap-spliced straight length of longitudinal bars
n Number of longitudinal bars laterally restrained by a stirrup corner or hook along the
perimeter of the cross-section or shear deformation contribution factor of steel members
24
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
sw Transverse reinforcement centreline spacing

t Thickness of the HSS steel cross-section
tf Flange thickness of I-shaped steel cross-section
tsl Slab thickness above the steel deck
tw Web thickness of I-shaped steel cross-section
z Internal lever arm of a reinforced concrete section
 Deflection at the end of the shear span of a structural member

l Value of  on the left side of the point of contraflexure of a frame
r Value of  on the right side of the point of contraflexure of a frame
u Axial displacement at ultimate conditions for a BRB
upl Plastic part of the deformation up to the peak axial resistance in tension and compression of
a BRB
y Value of  at yield; axial displacement at yield of a BRB
 Confinement effectiveness factor

 Factor for the evaluation of the effective flexural resistance at yield of a steel beam
t, c, u Steel brace axial displacement at yield in tension, at buckling in compression, and at
ultimate, respectively
upl Plastic part of ultimate deformation capacity of a member
 *u Deformation at ultimate capacity of a member corresponding to the attainment of an
effective ultimate resistance Q*u
y Deformation at yield, corresponding to the attainment of an effective yield resistance Q*y
εc0 Concrete strain at fc
εc0,c Confined concrete strain associated to fcc
εc2 Ultimate compression strain of (unconfined) concrete
c2,c Ultimate compression strain of confined concrete core
εsu Ultimate tensile strain of longitudinal bars
εsu,nom Uniform elongation at tensile strength in a standard steel coupon test
u Ultimate curvature at the end-section calculated from a section analysis
y Yield curvature at the end-section calculated from a section analysis
CT Compression strength adjustment factor
p Shear distortion at ultimate of an EBF link
y Yield shear distortion of the web panel
25
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
axial Correction factor of plastic chord rotation capacity for an axial force different than 0
concrete Correction factor of plastic chord rotation capacity for concrete strength different than
25 MPa
confinement Correction factor of plastic chord rotation capacity taking into account the confinement of
concrete due to transverse bars
conform Correction factor of plastic chord rotation capacity, accounting for structures conforming to
a given ductility class (DC)
reinf Correction factor of plastic chord rotation capacity for asymmetrical reinforcement
shearspan Correction factor of plastic chord rotation capacity for a shear span ratio different than 2,5
, Cl,1 Critical local slenderness ratio for the steel brace cross-section and corresponding local
slenderness for Class 1 HSS sections, respectively
axial Correction factor of plastic hinge length according to axial force
section Correction factor of plastic hinge length according to shear span
shearspan Correction factor of plastic hinge length according to section dimensions
 Normalised axial force
G Axial load ratio of the steel column due to the non-seismic actions in the seismic design
situation
l Chord rotation on the left side of the point of contraflexure of a frame
r Chord rotation on the right side of the point of contraflexure of a frame
u0pl Basic value of the plastic part of chord rotation capacity of a member
upl,+ Plastic part of rotation capacity of composite steel-concrete beams under sagging
upl,- Plastic part of rotation capacity of composite steel-concrete beams under hogging
u,slip Post-yield fixed-end rotation due to yield penetration in the anchorage zone beyond the
yielding end of the member
’ Geometrical ratio of the bars under compression
sw Volumetric ratio of transverse reinforcement in the direction of shear
tot Geometrical ratio of all longitudinal bars
rm Material overstrength (randomness) factor for structural steel members
’ Mechanical ratio of the bars under compression
tot Mechanical ratio of all longitudinal bars
3.2.2.5 Further symbols used in Annex E
F3 and F4 Forces corresponding to the characteristic points from the idealized force-displacement
relationship
Na Number of accelerograms
Se,LS Limit-state spectral acceleration, i.e. the median value of spectral acceleration at the
fundamental vibration period of the structure which causes a designated limit state
26
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Se,LS,i Limit-state spectral acceleration corresponding to the i-th accelerogram, i.e. the value of
spectral acceleration at the fundamental vibration period of the structure which causes a
designated limit state in the case of the i-th accelerogram
c Coefficient of damping of an equivalent SDOF model

d3 and d4 Forces corresponding to the characteristic points from the idealized force-displacement
relationship
∗
𝑑t,i Peak displacement of equivalent SDOF model for the i-th accelerogram
k* Initial stiffness of the equivalent SDOF model
3.2.2.6 Further symbols used in Annex F
H(Se) Seismic hazard function, i.e. the median of annual frequency of exceedance of Se
H(Se,LS) Median of annual frequency of exceedance of Se,LS
Se(T1) = Se Spectral acceleration at the fundamental period of the structure
Se,LS Limit-state spectral acceleration, i.e. the median value of spectral accelerations (at the
fundamental vibration period of the structure) which causes the designated LS
Se,ref Value of spectral acceleration at the fundamental period of structure T1, corresponding to
the reference return period Tref of the seismic action for SD limit state
PLS Annual probability of exceedance of a designated limit state
Pt,LS,CC Target annual probability of exceedance of a designated limit state for a given consequence
class of the structure
P(LS|Se) Probability that the ground motion with intensity equal to Se will cause the exceedance of
limit state LS
k Slope of the seismic hazard curve for Se in logarithmic domain
 Cumulative distribution function of the standardised Normal distribution
Se,LS Logarithmic standard deviation of Se,LS

Se,LS,min Minimum value of the Se,LS
Se,LS,max Maximum value of the Se,LS
3.2.3 Abbreviations
BRB Buckling restrained braces
27
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
CCi Consequence classes, i=1, 2 or 3 (possibly sub-divided in 3-a and 3-b)

CPT Cone penetration test
CQC Complete quadratic combination
DC1 Ductility class 1
DL Damage limitation
EBF Eccentrically-braced frame
ER Energy ratio for the standard penetration test
ETA European Technical Assessment
FVT Field vane test
LS Limit state
MDOF Multi-degree-of-freedom
NC Near collapse
OP Fully operational
PFA Peak floor acceleration
PGA Peak ground acceleration
PGD Peak ground displacement
PGV Peak ground velocity
PMT Pressuremeter test
SD Significant damage
SDOF Single-degree-of-freedom
SLS Serviceability limit state
SPT Standard penetration test
SRSS Square root of the sum of the squares
ULS Ultimate limit state
3.3 S.I. Units
(1) S.I. Units in accordance with ISO 80000 shall be used.

(2) For calculations, the following units should be used when applicable:
− mass: kg, t
− mass density: kg/m3, t/m3
− forces and loads: kN, kN/m, kN/m2
− unit weight: kN/m3
− stresses and strengths: Pa (= N/m2), kPa (= kN/m2), MPa (= MN/m2)
− moments (bending, etc): kNm
28
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
− acceleration: m/s2
4 Basis of design
4.1 Performance requirements
(1) Structures shall be designed so that, in the event of earthquakes, the following objectives are met
with an appropriate degree of reliability:
− human lives are protected;
− damage is limited;
− facilities important for civil protection remain operational.
NOTE 1 The random nature of the seismic events and the necessary optimal allocation of the limited economic
resources are such as to make the attainment of these goals only measurable in probabilistic terms. Annex F
provides a basis for measuring performance of structures in probabilistic terms.
NOTE 2 Strong ground motions generated by individual earthquakes are not predictable in a deterministic way.
Therefore, the purpose of EN 1998 is not to determine the seismic response of structures in the event of a specific
earthquake, but rather to limit the consequences of earthquakes.
(2) In order to meet the performance requirements in (1), it shall be verified that structures are
designed in such a way that specified limit states are not exceeded under prescribed seismic actions.
NOTE Seismic actions are introduced in this standard to meet the performance requirements despite the
unpredictable variability of the seismic input motion. Such actions are to be regarded as conventional and cannot
be related to any specific earthquake event.
(3) It shall be verified that ancillary elements are designed in such a way that the performance
requirements in (1) are met under the design seismic action.
(4) The seismic design cases should be categorised in seismic action classes according to Table 4.1,
depending on the value of the seismic action index, S, defined by Formula (4.1).
S =  F FT S,475 (4.1)
where
 is a coefficient that depends on the consequence class of the considered structure;

F is the site amplification factor given in 5.2.2.2(5);
FT is the topography amplification factor given in 5.2.2.2(10);
S,475 is the spectral acceleration for the return period of 475 years (see 5.2.1(2)).
NOTE The values of  are given in the relevant parts of EN 1998 according to the type of structure considered.
Table 4.1 — Range of S values to define seismic action classes

Range of seismic
Seismic action class
action index
Very low S < 1,30 m/s2
Low 1,30 m/s2  S < 3,25 m/s2
Moderate 3,25 m/s2  S < 6,50 m/s2
29
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
High S  6,50 m/s2
NOTE Values in Table 4.1 are calibrated in such a way that seismic actions classes are corresponding to
seismicity levels presented in Table 5.2 for CC2 buildings, taking into account a 1,3 average lump site coefficient
that accounts for a lump average 1,25 site amplification factor augmented to 1,3 so as to incorporate a lump
average topography factor.
(5) The provisions of EN 1998 may be neglected in cases of very low seismic action class.
(6) In cases of low seismic action class and for well-defined categories of structures, the performance
requirements may be satisfied through the application of rules simpler than those given in the relevant
parts of EN 1998.
NOTE If any, the categories of structures, with their associated design and verification rules, for which (6)
applies in a country can be provided by the relevant Authorities or can be found in the National Annex.
(7) For specific structures as specified in the relevant part of EN 1998, structures may be verified by
the force-based approach given in 6.4, applying a) to e):
a) the material partial factor values to consider in the verifications at ULS are those of the seismic
situation;
b) Rq(T) = 1 in 6.4.1(6);
c) qv = 1 in 6.4.1(7);
d) 5, 6.2.1, 6.2.2 and 6.7.1(1), (2), (5) and (6), 6.7.2(4), 6.7.3(5) and (7), are applied;
e) other conditions should be applied as given in the relevant parts of EN 1998.
NOTE This excludes the use of this option for structures not explicitly mentioned in the corresponding parts.
(8) The performance requirements should be defined for the construction phase in terms of
consequence class (see 4.2), limit states to be verified (see 4.3) and associated seismic action.
NOTE No verification is required for the construction phase, unless such verification is required by the
relevant Authorities or in the National Annex to the corresponding part of EN 1998 or, in absence of such
requirement, agreed for a specific project by the relevant parties.
4.2 Consequence classes
(1) Consequences classes defined in EN 1990:2020, 3.1.2.32, and 4.3(1), shall be used for the
application of EN 1998.
(2) Structures should be regarded as belonging to consequence class CC2 if not otherwise specified.
(3) Consequence class CC3 may be divided into two subclasses, CC3-a and CC3-b, depending on the
importance of the structures for public safety and civil protection in the immediate post-earthquake
period.
NOTE For a given type of structure, guidance for classification in CC3-a or CC3-b is given in the relevant part
of EN 1998.
4.3 Limit states and associated seismic action
(1) The seismic performance of a structure shall be measured by its state of damage under a given
seismic action. The state of damage shall be referred to the four limit states (LS), defined in a) to d) for
all parts of EN 1998:
NOTE Quantitative definition of limit states is introduced in some cases at the relevant parts of EN 1998.
30
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
a) LS of Near Collapse (NC) shall be defined as one in which the structure is heavily damaged,
with large permanent drifts, but retains its vertical load bearing capacity; most ancillary
components, where present, have collapsed.
b) LS of Significant Damage (SD) shall be defined as one in which the structure is significantly
damaged, possibly with moderate permanent drifts, but retains its vertical load bearing
capacity; ancillary components, where present, are damaged (e.g. partitions and infills have not
yet failed out-of-plane). The structure is expected to be repairable but, in some cases, it may be
uneconomic to repair.
c) LS of Damage Limitation (DL) shall be defined as one in which the structure is only slightly
damaged and economic to repair, with negligible permanent drifts, undiminished ability to
withstand future earthquakes and structural members retaining their full strength with a
limited decrease in stiffness; ancillary components, where present, exhibit only minor damage
that can be economically repaired (e.g. partitions and infills may show distributed cracking).
d) Fully Operational LS (OP) shall be defined as one in which the structure is only slightly damaged
and economic to repair, allowing continuous operation of systems hosted by the structure.
(2) SD and NC limits states should be considered as Ultimate Limit States. DL and OP limit states
should be considered as Serviceability Limit States.
NOTE Ultimate limit states (ULS) and serviceability limit states (SLS) are defined in EN 1990:2020, 5.3 and 5.4
respectively.
(3) Except when (5) is used, seismic actions should be specified in terms of their return periods. The
attainment of the performance requirements should be achieved by selecting appropriate return
periods, TLS,CC, depending on the specified limit states, LS, and consequence class, CC, of the structures.
NOTE For a given type of structure, TLS,CC values are given in the relevant parts of EN 1998.
(4) The value of the return period specified for limit state SD and consequence class CC2, TSD,2 should be
considered as the reference return period Tref introduced in 5.2.1(2).
NOTE 1 The seismic action associated to TSD,2 is designated as the “reference seismic action”.
NOTE 2 A given return period TR corresponds to a given probability of exceedance p in the service life tL of the
structure with TR = – tL / ln(1 – p).
(5) Performance factors, LS,CC, may be used alternatively to the return periods defined in (3). A value of
1,0 should be assigned to SD,2.
NOTE For a given type of structure, LS,CC values are given in the relevant part of EN 1998.
4.4 Primary and secondary members
(1) A certain number of structural members may be designated as “secondary” seismic members, not
forming part of the seismic action resisting system of the building. The strength and stiffness of these
members in face of seismic actions should be neglected in the models for seismic analysis unless
specific conditions by type of structure are given in the relevant part.
NOTE In buildings, these secondary members can be columns, beams supporting parts of slabs, etc.
(2) The secondary seismic members and their connections should be designed and detailed to
maintain support to non-seismic actions in the seismic design situation, in particular gravity loads,
when subjected to the displacements caused by the most unfavourable seismic design condition. Due
allowance for second-order effects (P- effects), in both the structure and these members, should be
made in the design of these members.
31
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(3) All structural members not designated as being secondary seismic members should be taken as
primary.
(4) The contribution of the lateral stiffness of secondary members to the total stiffness should not
significantly affect the dynamic behaviour of the structure.
NOTE To fulfil this requirement, specific conditions by type of structure are given in the relevant parts of
EN 1998.
4.5 Compliance criteria for new structures

4.5.1 General
(1) To satisfy the seismic performance requirements for new structures according to EN 1998:
− the requirements for design verification detailed in 4.5.2 shall be applied;
− and the non-exceedance of the SD limit state shall be verified.
NOTE 1 EN 1998 is conceived in such a way that, for a large majority of new structures, the SD non-exceedance
requirement implies avoiding NC exceedance under a seismic action meaningfully more severe than that of design,
as well as avoiding DL exceedance under a seismic action less severe than that of design. Additionally, by taking
into account the consequence class of the structures, the SD non-exceedance requirement implicitly contributes to some
extent to the fully operational performance.
NOTE 2 Compliance criteria for assessment of existing structures are given in EN 1998-3.
(2) Limit states should be verified according to 6.7.
NOTE The choice of additional Limit States to be verified in a country for each type of structure can be
provided by the relevant Authorities or can be found in the National Annex to the corresponding part of EN 1998
or can be agreed for a specific project by the relevant parties.
4.5.2 Design verification principles
(1) In order to ensure deformation capacity and cumulative energy dissipation capacity, brittle failure
or the premature formation of unstable mechanisms shall be avoided.
NOTE 1 EN 1998 considers that performance requirements are attained by a combination of strength,
deformation capacity and cumulative energy dissipation capacity. It takes also into account overstrength resulting
from the application of the other relevant Eurocodes.
NOTE 2 Two main approaches are considered in EN 1998 to verify the adequate combination of strength,
deformation capacity and cumulative energy dissipation capacity: the force-based approach and the displacement-
based approach (see 6.4 to 6.6). In addition, for structures with energy dissipation systems, a method based on
energy balance is considered (see 6.8).
(2) (1) may be considered as satisfied when the capacity design procedure is used, where required in
the relevant parts of EN 1998. This procedure should be used to obtain the hierarchy of resistance of
the various structural components and failure modes necessary for ensuring deformation capacity and
cumulative energy dissipation capacity. For a proper implementation of this procedure, the detailing of
connections between structural members and of regions where non-linear behaviour is foreseeable
should receive special care in design.
(3) Regarding their deformation capacity and cumulative energy dissipation capacity, structures
should be categorised in three ductility classes: DC1 (Ductility Class 1), DC2 (Ductility Class 2) and DC3
(Ductility Class 3).
NOTE 1 In DC1, the overstrength capacity is taken into account, while the inelastic deformation capacity and
energy dissipation capacity are disregarded.
NOTE 2 In DC2, the local overstrength capacity, the local deformation capacity and the local energy dissipation
capacity are taken into account. Global plastic mechanisms are controlled.
32
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
NOTE 3 In DC3, the ability of the structure to form a global plastic mechanism at SD limit state and its local
overstrength capacity, local deformation capacity and local energy dissipation capacity are taken into account.
(4) Categorisation of a structure as DC1, DC2 or DC3 should be based on its compliance with
provisions that are specified in the relevant part of EN 1998.
(5) In order to meet the performance requirements, it should be verified that all structural members
including connections and the relevant ancillary elements have a resistance not lower than the
corresponding action effects in the seismic design situation (see 6.7).
(6) Calculation of action effects and resistances should depend on the selected approach (force-based
or displacement-based, see 6.1) and on the ductility class.
NOTE Rules applicable to a given type of structures are given in the relevant parts of EN 1998.
(7) The foundations should transmit the actions received from the superstructure to the ground as
uniformly as possible.
NOTE This implies a sufficient stiffness of the foundations.
(8) In addition to 4.1(3), ancillary elements should be designed in such a way that they do not have a
detrimental effect on the dynamic response of the structure.
(9) In the seismic design situation, fastenings to concrete should be designed according to Annex G.
5 Site conditions and seismic action

5.1 Site conditions
5.1.1 General
(1) Site conditions shall be identified to establish the seismic action.

(2) (1) may be considered as satisfied if the site is categorised according to the criteria given in 5.1.2.
(3) The construction site and the supporting ground should not be potentially affected by the effects of
fault rupture, slope instability and/or permanent settlements caused by liquefaction or significant
densification under the considered seismic action.
NOTE In case criteria in (3) are met, the site is defined as stable.
(4) When the site is not stable, instability phenomena should be investigated in accordance with
prEN 1998-5:2021, 7.
(5) Specific analyses to account for the vicinity to well identified seismically active faults should be
made if all the conditions a) to c) apply:
a) the return period, TLS,CC , under consideration is longer than 1 000 years;
b) the maximum earthquake that the fault can generate has an expected moment magnitude Mw
greater than 6,5;
c) the minimum distance of the site from the segment obtained by projecting the top edge of the
fault to the ground surface is less than 5 km.
(6) If conditions a) to c) in (5) are met, site-specific hazard studies should be performed according to
Annex C, accounting also for the ensuing hazard from the possible seismic fault offset.
5.1.2 Site categorisation
(1) The site may be categorised in one of the categories A to F given in Table 5.1.
33
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(2) In case additional site categories are deemed necessary to better distinguish the seismic response
features of a region (e.g. hard rocks, very deep basins, very shallow and soft sites, irregularly layered
soil profiles), this should be done through specific seismic ground response or zonation studies at a
regional or urban scale.
(3) For the purpose of site categorisation, ground materials should be characterised from the ground
surface at least down to a depth of 30 m, except if the seismic bedrock formation, as defined in (6), is at
a shallower depth.
(4) Measurements already available in the close vicinity of the site may be used, provided documented
evidence of limited variability of soil conditions.
NOTE In such case of limited variability of soil conditions, a distance up to 100 m can be regarded as close
vicinity.
(5) The profile of the shear wave velocity vs in the ground should be regarded as the most reliable
predictor of the site-dependent characteristics of the seismic action at stable sites.
(6) In order to identify the site category, one of the two approaches a) or b) should be used:
a) To get quantitative information on H800 and vS,H and applying (8) to (10). H800 is the depth of the
seismic bedrock formation identified by vs at least equal to 800 m/s and vS,H is the equivalent
value of the shear wave velocity of the superficial soil deposit as defined in (7);
b) If the information on H800 and/or vs,H is not available or it is incomplete, Annex B may be used.
In case both approaches a) and b) are used and different results are obtained in terms of identification
of the site category, the results of approach a) should prevail.
(7) vs,H should be defined as given in Formula (5.1).
𝐻
𝑣s,H = ℎi (5.1)
∑𝑁
𝑖=1 𝑣
i
where
hi is the thickness of the i-th soil layer;
vi is the shear-wave velocity of the i-th soil layer;
N is the total number of soil layers from the ground surface down to depth H;
H = min(30 m; H800). If H800  30 m vs,H is denoted by vs,30.
(8) To obtain vs,H from Formula (5.1), direct measurements of vi within each layer at small strains
should be preferred, performed either through invasive (in-hole measurements) or non-invasive (e.g.
analysis of surface waves) techniques.
(9) The standard rock site should be characterised by H800 = 0 m and categorised as type A.
(10) For vs,H < 800 m/s, site categories A to F should be characterised by H800 and vs,H, as given in
Table 5.1.
Table 5.1 — Standard site categorisation

medium
Ground class stiff soft
stiffness
vs,H range 400 m/s ≤ vs,H 250 m/s ≤ vs,H 150 m/s ≤ vs,H
Depth class
H800 range < 800 m/s < 400 m/s < 250 m/s
very shallow H800 ≤ 5 m A A E
34
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
shallow 5 m < H800 ≤ 30 m B E E

intermediate 30 m < H800 ≤ 100 m B C D
deep H800 > 100 m B F F
5.2 Seismic action

5.2.1 Spectral acceleration maps
(1) For use of EN 1998, territories shall be mapped depending on the local seismic hazard.
NOTE The mapped representation of the seismic hazard implies that the relevant Authorities or the National
Annex provide the reference spectral acceleration parameters in terms of values defined on a sufficiently dense
grid throughout the concerned territory. These parameters can also be grouped into seismic zones, where the
same reference spectral accelerations apply.
(2) In case the hazard mapping takes the form of seismic zones, these zones should be delimited, and
their seismicity levels qualified according to Table 5.2, where S,475 is the reference spectral acceleration
defined in (3), calculated for a return period of 475 years. If a different reference return period is used
and S,475 is not available, S,475 values may be obtained by applying Formula (5.2).
475 1⁄𝑘
𝑆α,475 = 𝑆α,ref (𝑇 ) (5.2)
ref
NOTE A usual value of k is 3.
Table 5.2 — Range of S,475 values to define seismicity levels

Seismicity level S,475 (m/s2)
Very low S,475 < 1,0 m/s2
Low 1,0 m/s2 ≤ S,475 < 2,5 m/s2
Moderate 2,5 m/s2 ≤ S,475 < 5,0 m/s2
High S,475 ≥ 5,0 m/s2
(3) As the reference representation, the seismic hazard should be described in terms of two
parameters, given in a) and b):
a) S,ref, the reference maximum spectral acceleration, corresponding to the constant acceleration
range of the horizontal 5%-damped elastic response spectrum, as defined by Formula (5.8), on
site category A, for the return period Tref;
NOTE The mapped values to be ascribed to S,ref for use in a country can be set by the relevant Authorities or
found in the National Annex.
b) S,ref, the reference spectral acceleration at the vibration period T = 1 s of the horizontal 5%-
damped elastic response spectrum, as defined in 5.2.2.2, on site category A, for the return period
Tref.
NOTE Informative Annex A gives a representation of small-scale S,475 and S,475 maps of Europe.
(4) For the derivation of S,ref, a) or b) may be used:
a) to map the territory in terms of S,475 as specified in (2), and to obtain S,ref by applying Formula
(5.3):
35
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
𝑆β,ref = 𝑓h 𝑆α,ref (5.3)
where:
− fh = 0,2 for low and very low seismicity levels;
− fh = 0,3 for moderate seismicity levels;
− fh = 0,4 for high seismicity levels.
b) to obtain S,ref from a seismic hazard study of the territory under consideration and map it
concurrently with S,ref.
NOTE The choice between options a) and b) and, in the case of option b), the mapped values to be ascribed to
S,ref for use in a country, can be set by the relevant Authorities or found in the National Annex.
(5) In case the reference seismic hazard is established on a site category X other than A, the spectral
parameters to define the horizontal elastic response spectrum in 5.2.2.2(1) for the considered site
category X should be provided in terms of either a) or b):
a) S,ref,X and S,ref,X, where:
S,ref,X is the reference spectral acceleration, corresponding to the constant acceleration
range of the horizontal 5%-damped elastic response spectrum, for the considered
site category X, for the return period Tref;
S,ref,X is the spectral acceleration at the vibration period T = 1 s of the horizontal 5%-
damped elastic response spectrum, for the considered site category X, for the
return period Tref.
b) S,ref,X and TC,X, where TC, X is the upper corner period of the constant spectral acceleration range.
In this case, the product ST should be replaced by STC,X in Formulas (5.9) and (5.10), and in
Formulas (5.6) to (5.10), TC should be replaced by TC,X.
NOTE 1 The alternative b) in (5) refers to those cases where the territory, or a significant portion of it, is
dominated by a specific site category and the relevant Authorities consider mapping its hazard in terms of spectral
parameters for that specific site category.
NOTE 2 For use in a country, the mapped values to be ascribed to S,ref,X and S,ref,X, for alternative a), or to S,ref,X
and TC,X, for alternative b), can be set by the relevant Authorities or found in the National Annex.
(6) When earthquakes affecting a site are generated by widely differing seismic sources, the possibility
of adopting several reference pairs of spectral values (S,ref and S,ref) may be considered.
(7) For return periods other than Tref, associated either to a specific limit state or to a specific
consequence class of buildings or to a specific duration of construction, the corresponding values of the
spectral parameters S,RP and S,RP on site category A may be obtained by either a) or b):
a) from spectral acceleration maps for a set of selected return periods;
b) from performance factors LS,CC, as introduced in 4.3(4) as an alternative to return periods, to be
applied as multiplication factors to the reference spectral parameters as given by Formulas (5.4)
and (5.5).
𝑆α,RP = 𝛾LS,CC 𝑆α,ref (5.4)
𝑆β,RP = 𝛾LS,CC 𝑆β,ref (5.5)
In case (5) applies, S,RP, S,ref, S,RP and S,ref should be replaced by S,RP,X, S,ref,X, S,RP,X and S,ref,X,
respectively, in formulas (5.4) and (5.5).
36
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
5.2.2 Spectral acceleration maps
5.2.2.1 General
(1) Within the scope of EN 1998, the seismic action at a given location on the ground surface shall be
represented by horizontal and vertical elastic pseudo-absolute acceleration response spectra,
henceforth called “elastic response spectra”.
NOTE A reduced spectrum for the application of the force-based approach is introduced in 6.4.1.
(2) The elastic response spectrum for horizontal components should be taken as defined in 5.2.2.2,
based on the spectral accelerations S,RP and S,RP, as specified in 5.2.1(7), according to Formulas (5.6) to
(5.10) and to the site and topography amplification factors in Table 5.4 and Table 5.5. Similarly, the
elastic response spectrum for the vertical component should be taken as defined in 5.2.2.3.
(3) The horizontal seismic action should be described by two orthogonal components represented by
the same elastic response spectrum.
NOTE The elastic response spectrum for horizontal components is intended to be constructed by the
geometric mean of the recorded horizontal components.
(4) Site-specific ground response studies may be used in view of the definition of the seismic action for
performance verifications, for whatever the ground type and the consequence class of the structure.
These studies should be carried out according to Annex C and to prEN 1998-5:2021, 7.5, and should
provide site-specific elastic response spectra.
(5) Site-specific ground response studies should be carried out in case a) or b) apply:
a) in case of high seismic action class, with vs,H < 200 m/s;
b) when site conditions cannot be associated with the standard site categories referred to in Table
5.1.
(6) Time-history representations of the seismic action may be used (see 5.2.3).
5.2.2.2 General
(1) For the horizontal components of the seismic action, an elastic response spectrum Se(T) should be
taken as given by Formulas (5.6) to (5.10) and represented in Figure 5.1:
𝑆
0 ≤ 𝑇 < 𝑇A : 𝑆𝑒 (𝑇) = 𝐹α (5.6)
A
𝑆α 𝑇B −𝑇
𝑇A ≤ 𝑇 < 𝑇B : 𝑆e (𝑇) = 𝑇 [𝜂(𝑇 − 𝑇A ) + ] (5.7)
B −𝑇A 𝐹A
𝑇B ≤ 𝑇 < 𝑇C : 𝑆e (𝑇) = 𝜂𝑆α (5.8)

𝑆β 𝑇β
𝑇C ≤ 𝑇 < 𝑇D : 𝑆e (𝑇) = 𝜂 (5.9)
𝑇
𝑆β 𝑇β
𝑇 ≥ 𝑇B : 𝑆e (𝑇) = 𝜂𝑇D (5.10)
𝑇2
where
Se(T) is the elastic response spectrum;
T is the vibration period of a linear single-degree-of-freedom system;
37
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
S is the maximum response spectral acceleration (for 5% damping) corresponding

to the constant acceleration range of the elastic response spectrum, given by
Formula (5.11);
S is the 5%-damped response spectral acceleration at the vibration period T, given
by Formula (5.12);
T T = 1 s;
TA is the short-period cut-off associated to the zero-period spectral acceleration,
given in (2);
FA is the ratio of S to the zero-period spectral acceleration, given in (2);
𝑆β 𝑇β
𝑇C = is the upper corner period of the constant spectral acceleration range;
𝑆α
TB is the lower corner period of the constant spectral acceleration range, with:
𝑇C 𝑇C
– 𝑇B = 𝜒
, if 0,05 s  𝜒
 0,10 s
𝑇C
– TB = 0,05 s, if 𝜒
< 0,05 s
𝑇C
– TB = 0,10 s, if 𝜒
> 0,10 s and where the value of  is given in (2);
TD is the corner period at the beginning of the constant displacement response range
of the spectrum, given in (2);
 is the damping correction factor, with a reference value  = 1 for 5% damping
ratio, as given in (12).
Figure 5.1 — Elastic response spectrum shape (with horizontal log scale)
(2) Values ascribed to the additional parameters that are required by Formulas (5.6) to (5.10) may be
obtained from specific seismic hazard studies and may be provided in the form of mapped values at
regional or national scale. In the absence of specific studies, values may be taken from Table 5.3.
38
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
NOTE In case the abovementioned additional parameters apply at a regional scale, their values can be set by
the National Authorities or found in the National Annex.
Table 5.3 — Values of parameters defining the standard

elastic response spectrum
TA (s) FA  TD (s)
2 if 𝑆β,RP ≤ 1 m⁄s 2
0,02 2,5 4 1 + 𝑆β,RP if 𝑆β,RP > 1 m⁄s 2
(with S,RP in m/s2)
(3) For cases where TC  1 s, a specific study for the definition of the horizontal elastic spectrum
should be carried out and the spectral parameters in 5.2.2.2(1) should be evaluated.
(4) The spectral accelerations S and S should be calculated from Formulas (5.11) and (5.12).
𝑆α = 𝐹T 𝐹α 𝑆α,RP (5.11)
𝑆𝛽 = 𝐹T 𝐹β 𝑆β,RP (5.12)
where
F is the short period site amplification factor;

F is the intermediate period (T = T) site amplification factor;
FT is the topography amplification factor, given in (10);
S,RP and S,RP are given in 5.2.1(7).
In case 5.2.1(5) applies, 𝐹α 𝑆α,RP and 𝐹β 𝑆β,RP should be replaced by 𝑆α,RP,X and 𝑆β,RP,X in formulas (5.11)
and (5.12).
(5) For the standard site categories of Table 5.1, values of the site amplification factors introduced in
5.2.2.2(4) should be taken as given in Table 5.4. Default values in Table 5.4 should be used in case the
site category is identified based on criteria in Annex B, B.3. The continuous formulation of the site
amplification factors may be used in case either a) or b) apply:
a) values of vs,H and, if applicable, H800 are documented;
b) vs,H and/or H800 are estimated based on Annex B, B.4.
Table 5.4 — Site amplification factors F and F for the standard site categories of Table 5.1
F F
Site
category H800 and vs,H H800 and vs,H
Default value Default value
available available
A 1,0 1,0 1,0 1,0
B 1,3 (1 − 0,1 𝑆α,RP /𝑔) 1,6 (1 − 0,2 𝑆β,RP /𝑔)

𝑣𝑠,H −0,40 𝑟α 𝑣s,H −0,70 𝑟β
C ( ) 1,6 (1 − 0,2 𝑆α,RP /𝑔) ( ) 2,3 (1 − 0,3 𝑆β,RP /𝑔)
800 800
D 1,8 (1 − 0,3 𝑆α,RP /𝑔 3,2 (1 − 𝑆β,RP /𝑔)
39
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
𝐻 𝐻 𝐻
E 𝑣s,H −0,40 𝑟α 30 (4−10) 2,2 (1 − 0,5 𝑆α,RP /𝑔) 𝑣s,H −0,70 𝑟β 30 3,2 (1 − 𝑆β,RP /𝑔)
( ) ( )
800 800
𝑣𝑠,H −0,40 𝑟α 𝑣s,H −0,70 𝑟β
F 0,90 ( ) 1,7 (1 − 0,3 𝑆α,RP /𝑔) 1,25( ) 4,0 (1 − 𝑆β,RP /𝑔)
800 800
𝑆α,RP /𝑔 𝑆β,RP /𝑔
with 𝑟α = 1 − and 𝑟β = 1 −
𝑣s,H /150 𝑣𝑠,H /150
NOTE Values in Table 5.4 are based on median soil amplification factors from empirical ground motion
prediction models calibrated on European records. The standard rock conditions these factors are based on are
those of soil category A (vs > 800 m/s).
(6) Except for moderate and high seismic action classes, the simplifications in a) and b) may be made:
a) default values F = 2,20 and F = 4,0 may be used for any stable site condition;
b) site categories D, E and F in Table 5.4 may be extended to stable very soft soils, with
150 m/s > vs,H ≥ 100 m/s.
(7) If different soil velocity profiles are available at the site, providing either the same ground type or
vs,H values with difference less than 10% from the mean, the average site amplification factors obtained
with the different vs,H values may be used.
(8) If different ground types are identified at the site, the one providing the largest value of the site
amplification factors should be selected to determine the elastic spectrum for design, unless at least
75% of the structure rests on one ground type and the structure has a continuous foundation slab. In
the latter case, the dominant ground type may be selected.
(9) In case additional site categories are introduced at a regional or urban scale according to 5.1.2(2),
the corresponding site amplification factors F and F should be evaluated through site-specific studies.
NOTE In case such additional site categories apply at a regional scale, these spectral parameters can be set by
the National Authorities or found in the National Annex.
(10) In case of topographic irregularities of height greater than 30 m, with average slope angles larger
than 15° and only for ground types A and B, a period-independent topography amplification factor FT
should be applied, evaluated according to Table 5.5. In the other cases, FT = 1.
Table 5.5 — Topography amplification factors for simple topographic irregularities

Topography description FT Simplified sketch*
Flat ground surface, slopes and isolated ridges with

1,0
average slope angle i < 15° or height < 30 m
Slopes with average slope angle i > 15° 1,2
Ridges with width at the top much smaller than at

1,2
the base and average slope angle 15° < i < 30°
Ridges with width at the top much smaller than at

1,4
the base and average slope angle i > 30°
* Values of FT in the second column refer to the top locations (point T in the simplified
40
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
sketches). A linear decrease of FT is considered between point T and point B (base) and point
A (located at 100 m distance from T), where FT = 1 applies.
(11) Site-specific studies may be carried out according to the general criteria specified in Annex C, to
quantify the topography amplification with an improved level of accuracy, accounting for its frequency-
dependence.
(12) The value of the damping correction factor  should be determined according to Formula (5.13).
𝑇C (𝜉−5)
𝜂 = √(10 + 𝑇 +30 (𝑇−𝑇A )
)⁄(5 + 𝜉) (5.13)
C
where
 is the damping ratio of the structure, expressed as a percentage of critical;

T is the vibration period considered;
TC is defined in (1).
NOTE 1 The approximation given by Formula (5.13) is valid for periods T not higher than 4 s.
NOTE 2 When appropriate for a type of structure, values of the damping ratio different from 5% are given in the
relevant part of EN 1998.
(13) The elastic displacement response spectrum, SDe(T) should be as given in Formulas (5.14) to
(5.16).
𝑇 2
𝑇 ≤ 𝑇E : 𝑆De (𝑇) = 𝑆e (𝑇) × ( ) (5.14)
2π
𝐹 𝑇−𝑇E
𝑇E < 𝑇 ≤ 𝑇F : 𝑆De (𝑇) = 𝑆De (𝑇E ) × [1 + (𝐹L − 1) 𝑇 ] (5.15)
β F −𝑇E
𝐹
𝑇 > 𝑇F : 𝑆De (𝑇) = 𝑆De (𝑇E ) × 𝐹L (5.16)
β
where
Se(T) is given in (1);
TE = max (TD; 6 s);
TF = 10 s;
FL is the long period site amplification factor given by Formula (5.17).
𝑣 −0,4
s,H
𝐹L = ( 800 ) (5.17)
(14) In case vs,H is not available, the following values should be used for the determination of the long
period site amplification factor, according to the site category:
a) FL = F for category A;
b) FL = 0,90 F for category B or E;
c) FL = 0,75 F for category C or F;
d) FL = 0,60 F for category D.
41
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
5.2.2.3 Vertical elastic response spectrum
(1) For the vertical component of the seismic action, a vertical elastic response spectrum Sve(T) should
be obtained by using Formulas (5.6) to (5.10), where the parameters S, S, TB and TC are replaced by
their counterparts Sv, Sv, TBv and TCv, as given in Formulas (5.18) to (5.21).
𝑆αv = 𝑓vα 𝑆α (5.18)
𝑆βv = 𝑓vβ 𝑆β (5.19)
𝑆βv 𝑇β
𝑇Cv = [ 𝑆αv
] (5.20)
TBv = 0,05 s (5.21)
where:
0,6 if 𝑆α < 2,5 m/s 2

𝑓vα = {0,04 𝑆α + 0,5 if 2,5 m/s2 ≤ 𝑆α ≤ 7,5 m/s 2 (with 𝑆α in m/s2 ) (5.22)
0,8 if 𝑆α > 7,5 m/s2
𝑓vβ = 0,6 (5.23)
5.2.2.4 Design peak values of the seismic ground motion
(1) Design peak values of horizontal ground acceleration (PGAe in m/s²), velocity (PGVe in m/s) and
displacement (PGDe in m) should be calculated according to Formulas (5.24), (5.25) and (5.26)
respectively.
𝑆α
𝑃𝐺𝐴e = (5.24)
𝐹A
0,55
𝑃𝐺𝑉e = 0,06(𝑆α 𝑆β ) (5.25)
𝑃𝐺𝐷e = 𝑆De (𝑇F ) = 0,025 𝑇β 𝑇D 𝐹L 𝐹T 𝑆β,RP (5.26)
where S, S (in m/s2), T, TD, TF (in s), FA, and FL are defined in 5.2.2.2.
(2) The maximum relative displacement, dij,max, between two sites i and j at distance xij, may be
evaluated according to Formulas (5.27) and (5.28).
0,7
𝑑ij,max = 𝑑ij,ld,max [1 − 𝑒 −1,25(𝑥ij /𝑥L) ] , with 𝑥L = 500 m (5.27)
2
𝑑ij,ld,max = 1,25√𝑃𝐺𝐷ei 2
+ 𝑃𝐺𝐷ej (5.28)
where
PGDei and PGDej are the peak ground displacement at sites i and j, respectively, calculated
according to Formula (5.26) for the corresponding ground conditions.
42
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
5.2.2.5 Conventional earthquake magnitude
(1) Whenever this information may be of use, such as for ground liquefaction verification (prEN 1998-
5:2021, 7.3) and selection of input accelerograms for response-history analyses (Annex D), a
conventional value of earthquake magnitude (in terms of moment magnitude Mw), and of the
corresponding duration DR of the strong part of the ground motion, may be associated to the elastic
response spectrum.
(2) In the absence of specific evaluations, values given in Table 5.6 may be used.
NOTE Values of Mw in Table 5.6 are associated, through S,RP, to the intermediate period range of the elastic
response spectrum. Values of epicentral distances less than about 20 km are implicitly assumed, since in most
cases seismic hazard in Europe is governed by local earthquakes.
Table 5.6 — Conventional values of earthquake magnitude and of duration of the strong part of
ground motion, for ranges of SRP and different site categories
DR (s)
Range of S,RP
Mw Site categories B Other site
(m/s2) Site category A
and C categories
≤ 0,08 4,5 0,5 0,6 0,75
0,08 < S,RP ≤ 0,2 5,0 1,0 1,2 1,5
0,2 < S,RP ≤ 0,5 5,5 2,0 2,4 3,0
0,5 < S,RP ≤ 1,2 6,0 4,0 4,8 6,0
1,2 < S,RP ≤ 2,5 6,5 8,0 9,6 12
2,5 < S,RP ≤ 4,0 7,0 16 19 24
S,RP > 4,0 7,5 32 38 48
(3) Specific studies may be carried out for situations where seismicity is governed by large and distant
earthquakes.
NOTE When these specific studies lead to the conclusion that values of Mw and DR in Table 5.6 are not
appropriate, alternative values can be set in the National Annex or by the relevant Authorities.
5.2.3 Alternative representations of the seismic action
5.2.3.1 Input motions for response-history analysis
(1) The seismic input motion may be represented by time series expressed in terms of accelerograms
and related time-dependent quantities (velocity and displacement).
(2) Depending on the nature of the application and on the information actually available, the input
motion may consist of recorded accelerograms, simulated accelerograms, or artificial accelerograms.
NOTE 1 Criteria for selection and scaling of input motions are given in Annex D.
NOTE 2 The minimum number of accelerograms to be considered for different seismic action classes is
specified in 6.6.
43
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
5.2.3.2 Spatial model of the seismic action
(1) For structures for which the assumption of the same excitation at all supports cannot reasonably
be made, spatial models of the seismic action should be used.
NOTE Allowance for the variation of ground motion in space as well as time can be required for specific types
of structures (see EN 1998-2 and EN 1998-4).
(2) At every support of structures considered in (1), the seismic action should be represented
according to 5.2.2, either in the form of response spectra or of time series, duly accounting for the
possible site condition variability at different supports.
(3) If the seismic action is represented by a set of response spectra, for every couple of supports with
indices k and l, a correlation coefficient, kl, between action effects may be calculated according to
Formula (5.29).
2 𝐿kl
𝜌kl = 𝑒𝑥𝑝 (− 𝑎 ) (5.29)
kl (𝐿g,k +𝐿g,l )
where
Lkl is the distance between supports k and l;
Lg,k and Lg,l are characteristic lengths given in Table 5.7 as functions of the site category of the
considered supports k and l, respectively;
akl is given by Formula (5.30).
𝐿g,k −𝐿g,l
𝑎kl = 𝑒𝑥𝑝 (− 500
) (5.30)
Table 5.7 — Characteristic Lengths

Site category A B C D E F
Lg (m) 400 300 250 200 300 200
(4) In case the seismic action is represented in the form of time series for response-history analysis,
the normalised cross-correlation coefficient between two input motions applied in the same direction at
supports k and l should not exceed the largest of kl given by Formula (5.29) and 0,2.
6 Modelling, analysis and verification

6.1 General
(1) In application of 4.1(2) and 4.5.2(5), the seismic action effects in the structure should be evaluated
under the prescribed seismic action according to one of the approaches defined in (2) and (6).
(2) The force-based approach, which employs a linear analysis that implicitly and approximately
accounts for the overstrength and the non-linear response through a behaviour factor q, may be
implemented with either a) or b):
a) the lateral force method (see 6.4.2);
b) the response spectrum method (see 6.4.3).
(3) The force-based approach may be used for verification to SD limit state.
(4) Except when otherwise specified, the force-based approach should not be used for verification to
NC limit state.
44
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(5) The force-based approach may be used for verifications to DL and OP limit states, using q = 1 in the
analysis (see 6.4.1(1)).
(6) The displacement-based approach, which explicitly accounts for the structural non-linear
response, may be implemented through a non-linear static analysis (see 6.5).
(7) In the force-based approach, the design displacements should be obtained from the calculated
displacements as required in 6.4.2(2). In the displacement-based approach the design displacements
should be those obtained directly from the analysis without further modification, except as given in
6.5.4(6).
(8) As an alternative to (2) and (6), response-history analyses may also be used (see 6.6).
(9) It should be verified that the action effects do not exceed the corresponding resistances, for the
limit state associated to the prescribed seismic action in application of 4.1(2) (see 6.7).
(10) The seismic action effects should be determined with consideration of a) and b):
a) uncertainties in the location of masses and the distribution of stiffness;
b) the spatial variation of the seismic motion, when necessary.
NOTE Appropriate methods are given in the relevant part of EN 1998, according to the type of structure
considered.
6.2 Modelling
6.2.1 General
(1) The model of the structure should adequately represent a) and b):
a) the distribution of stiffness and mass, so that all significant deformation shapes are properly
accounted for under the seismic action considered;
b) when considered in the analysis, the damping throughout the structure.
NOTE Damping is used for instance in spectral elastic analysis or in response-history analysis.
(2) In the case of non-linear analysis, the model should also adequately represent the distribution of
strength and deformation capacity.
(3) The mass should take into account the presence of permanent and variable gravity loads as
appearing in the seismic design situation, using the combination of masses given by Formula (6.1).
∑ 𝐺k,j " + " ∑ 𝜓E,i 𝑄k,i (6.1)
where the combination coefficients E,i take into account the likelihood of the loads Qk,i not being
present over the entire structure during the earthquake. These coefficients may also account for a
reduced participation of masses in the motion of the structure due to the non-rigid connection between
them.
NOTE Values of E,i, expressed versus values of 2,i defined in EN 1990:2020, 6.1.2.3(3), can be found in the
relevant parts of EN 1998.
(4) Member properties should be based on mean values of the properties of the materials. For new
structures, mean values of material properties may be estimated from the corresponding characteristic
values based on information provided in EN 1992 to EN 1996 and EN 1999 or in material or product
ENs.
45
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(5) The model may account for the contribution of joint regions to the deformability of the structure,
e.g. the end zones in beams or columns of frame-type structural systems.
(6) Ancillary elements which may influence the seismic response of the structure should be accounted
for.
(7) The possible influence of adjacent structures should be considered.
NOTE For example, an adjacent structure can limit the displacements of the considered structure or it can
impose displacements on it.
6.2.2 Additional modelling rules for linear analysis
(1) The elastic stiffness should be equal to the secant effective stiffness that corresponds to the elastic
limit of the structural member.
NOTE Further guidance is given in the relevant material clauses.
(2) In reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry structures, the elastic stiffness should correspond
to that of cracked sections corresponding to initiation of yielding of the reinforcement.
(3) The deformability of the soil-foundation system, including soil-structure interaction, should be
considered in the model whenever it may have an adverse overall influence on the structural response.
Foundation deformability may always be considered, but its possible beneficial effects should be
modelled in a conservative manner.
NOTE Models for soil-structure interaction are given in prEN 1998-5:2021, 8.
6.2.3 Additional modelling rules for non-linear analysis
(1) In its elastic domain, the structural model should conform to 6.2.2. It should be extended to
adequately represent the post-elastic behaviour of structural members.
(2) As a minimum, a bilinear force-deformation relationship should be used at the member level. Zero
post-yield stiffness may be assumed.
(3) In reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry structures, trilinear force-deformation
relationships may be used in order to consider pre-crack and post-crack stiffnesses.
(4) The models for the estimation of deformation capacity of structural members should consider
cyclic degradation due to the nature of seismic action. If strength degradation is expected, it should be
included in the force-deformation relationships of those members.
NOTE In particular, this is the case if the seismic response is simulated in the vicinity of the NC limit state, see
also 6.5.1(3). prEN 1998-3:2022, 6.2, gives possible force-deformation relationships accounting for degradation.
(5) Axial forces and shear should be considered when determining force-deformation relations for
bending of structural members.
(6) In case of response-history analysis, the structural member models should be supplemented with
element constitutive relationships under unloading-reloading cycles that represent the cumulative
energy dissipation capacity in the member over the range of displacement amplitudes expected in the
seismic design situation.
6.3 Seismic action
(1) The horizontal components of the seismic action (see 5.2.2.2), and, if relevant, the vertical
component (see 5.2.2.3), should be taken as acting simultaneously.
NOTE Guidance on the action effects of the vertical component can be found in the relevant parts of EN 1998.
46
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(2) In the case of base-isolated structures, the vertical component of the seismic action should be
considered for the verification of the isolators.
(3) The elastic response spectra given in 5.2.2.2 and 5.2.2.3, or the corresponding input motions
selected in accordance with 5.2.3.1, should be used as representation of the seismic action except when
the force-based approach is applied, in which case the reduced response spectrum should be used (see
6.4.1).
6.4 Force-based approach

6.4.1 Reduced spectrum for the force-based approach
(1) In the force-based approach, in DC1, DC2 or DC3, the seismic action should take the form of a
reduced spectrum, derived from the elastic response spectrum by introducing the behaviour factor q,
which accounts for overstrength, deformation capacity and energy dissipation capacity and is given by
Formula (6.2).
q = qR qS qD (6.2)
where
qR is the behaviour factor component accounting for overstrength due to the
redistribution of seismic action effects in redundant structures;
qS is the behaviour factor component accounting for overstrength due to all other
sources;
qD is the behaviour factor component accounting for the deformation capacity and
energy dissipation capacity.
(2) EN 1998 is conceived in such a way that the values of the behaviour factor components should be
as given in a) to c):
a) qR = 1, if not otherwise specified in the relevant part of EN 1998;
b) qS = 1,5, unless a lower value is given in the relevant part of EN 1998;
c) qD as given in (3) and (4).
NOTE Exceptions to the generic rule qS = 1,5 are possible when dealing with structural members without
overstrength, such as unreinforced masonry, or for structures with specific devices that are designed not to have
intrinsic overstrength, such as fuse devices.
(3) According to 4.5.1(1), qD values should be selected so as to keep a significant margin with respect
to the ultimate deformation capacity and should depend on the selected ductility class, according to
conditions in a) to c):
a) qD = 1 for DC1;
b) qD  1 for DC2;
c) For DC3, qD values are not smaller than those for DC2.
NOTE Maximum values of qD are given in the various parts of EN 1998 for various materials and structural
systems, according to the relevant ductility classes.
(4) qD values may be different in different horizontal directions, although the ductility class should be
the same in all directions.
47
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(5) In case soil-structure interaction (SSI) is taken into account in the analysis, the qD,SSI value
considering SSI should be used, instead of qD, and calculated using Formula (6.3).
1 1 𝑇
𝑞D,SSI
= 1 − (1 − 𝑞 ) 𝜂𝑇1 (6.3)
D SSI
where
qD,SSI is the value of qD to be used in the analysis with SSI;
qD is the value of the ductile component of the behaviour factor of the fixed-base
structure given in the relevant part of EN 1998;
T1 is the fundamental period of the structure in the considered direction, with a fixed
base;
TSSI is the fundamental period in the same direction, calculated considering SSI;
 is the damping correction factor given by Formula (5.13), with  the damping
ratio considering SSI according to prEN 1998-5:2021, 8.  should not be taken
lower than 0,7.
(6) For the horizontal components of the seismic action the reduced spectrum, Sr(T), should be that
given by Formula (6.4).
𝑆e (𝑇)
𝑆r (𝑇) = ≥ 𝛽𝑆α,475 (𝑇) (6.4)
𝑅q (𝑇)
with Rq(T) given by Formulas (6.5) to (6.7):
𝑇 ≤ 𝑇A : 𝑅q (𝑇) = 𝑅q0 (6.5)

𝑇−𝑇A
𝑇A < 𝑇 ≤ 𝑇B : 𝑅q (𝑇) = 𝑅q0 + (𝑞 − 𝑅q0 ) 𝑇 (6.6)
B −𝑇A
𝑇 > 𝑇B : 𝑅q (𝑇) = 𝑞 (6.7)
where
Rq0 = qR qS ;
q is the behaviour factor, as defined in (1);
Se(T), TA and TB are as defined in 5.2.2.2, considering  = 1;
Sr(T) is the reduced spectrum;
 is the lower bound factor for the horizontal reduced spectrum.
NOTE 1 The values to be ascribed to  are given in the relevant parts of EN 1998. This lower bound value
applies only to forces. Displacement demands should still be evaluated from the displacement spectrum or the
elastic response spectrum, in particular for very flexible structures.
NOTE 2 The reduced spectrum is not sufficient for the design of structures with base-isolation or energy-
dissipation systems. This is due to the fact that, in such structures, energy dissipation is concentrated in a single
system or in a limited number of specific devices instead of being distributed in the structural system. Further
requirements for such structures are given in 6.8.
(7) For the vertical component of the seismic action, the reduced spectrum Svr(T) should be defined by
Formula (6.8).
48
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
𝑆ve (𝑇)
𝑆vr (𝑇) = (6.8)
𝑞v
where a behaviour factor qv equal to 1,5 may be adopted for all materials and structural systems and
Sve(T) is defined in 5.2.2.3.
(8) Adoption of qv values greater than 1,5 in the vertical direction should be justified through an
appropriate analysis considering the capacity of energy dissipation of the structure associated to this
component. In such case, the reduced spectrum Svr(T) is determined according to Formulas (6.4) to
(6.7) using Rq0 equal to 1,5 and qv instead of q.
6.4.2 Lateral force method
(1) This approach, which consists in applying a system of static forces in each principal direction, may
be applied to structures whose response is not significantly affected by contributions from modes of
vibration higher than the fundamental mode in each principal direction.
NOTE Conditions and procedures for applying the lateral force method are given in the relevant part of
EN 1998, according to the type of structure and structural system considered.
(2) Displacements induced by the reduced seismic action should be calculated using Formula (6.9).
𝑑s = 𝑞disp 𝑑r (6.9)
where
ds is the displacement of a point of the structure;
dr is the displacement of the same point of the structural model calculated under the
reduced spectrum associated to the design seismic action;
qdisp = q, if T1  TC
= 1+ (q − 1) TC/T1  3q, if T1 < TC
T1 is the fundamental period of the structure in the considered direction.
For T1  TC, the value of ds should not be larger than the value derived from the elastic spectrum.
NOTE This particularly applies in situations where the lower limitation of the spectrum defined by  applies
(see NOTE 1 to 6.4.1(6)).
(3) When determining the displacements dr, the torsional effects due to the seismic action should be
considered.
6.4.3 Response spectrum method
6.4.3.1 General
(1) The response spectrum method is the reference in the context of the force-based approach. It may
be applied in all cases and, particularly, it should be applied to structures which do not satisfy the
conditions for application of the lateral force method.
(2) The response of all modes of vibration contributing significantly to the global response should be
considered.
(3) (2) may be considered as satisfied if either of conditions a) or b) is fulfilled:
a) all modes are retained until the sum of their effective modal masses amounts to at least 90% of
the total mass of the structural model and the period of the last retained mode is longer than TA;
49
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
b) all modes are retained with the condition that the last retained one has a period not longer than
TB. All the modes after the last retained one are represented by a residual mode. The spectral
acceleration of the residual mode is the one of the last retained mode.
(4) When using a spatial model, the above conditions should be verified for each relevant direction.
(5) Since the outputs of modal response combination are positive values, appropriate combinations of
these outputs should be considered when the verification of a structural member is based on
concomitant variables, so that unfavourable sign combinations are not eliminated.
NOTE It can be the case when a verification depends simultaneously on bending moment and axial force
and/or shear force.
(6) The displacements induced by the design seismic action should be calculated using Formula (6.9),
where dr is the displacement calculated with the reduced spectrum in application of 6.4.3.2.
6.4.3.2 Combination of modal responses
(1) The response in two vibration modes i and j (including both translational and torsional modes)
may be taken as independent of each other if their periods Ti and Tj (with Tj  Ti) and damping ratio i
and j satisfy the condition given by Formula (6.10).
|𝑇i − 𝑇j |/(𝑇i + 𝑇j ) > 𝜉i + 𝜉j (6.10)
(2) When all relevant modal responses are independent of each other according to (1), the maximum
value EE of a seismic action effect may be taken as given by the square root of the sum of the squares
(SRSS) in Formula (6.11).
𝐸E = √∑ 𝐸Ei 2 (6.11)
where
EE is the seismic action effect under consideration (force, displacement, etc.);
EEi is the value of this seismic action effect due to vibration mode i.
(3) When (2) is not applied, the complete quadratic combination (CQC) given by Formula (6.12)
should be used.
𝐸E = √∑ 𝐸Ei 𝑟ij 𝐸Ej (6.12)
where rij is the correlation factor given by Formulas (6.13) or (6.14).

1 𝑇 −𝑇
if ξi = ξj = ξ: 𝑟ij = 𝛼ij 2
, with 𝛼ij = 𝑇i+𝑇j (6.13)
1+( ) i j
𝜉
8√𝜉i 𝜉j (𝜉i +𝜌ij 𝜉j )𝜌ij 3/2

if ξi ≠ ξj : 𝑟ij = 2
(6.14)
2 2
(1−𝜌ij 2 ) +4𝜉i 𝜉j 𝜌ij (1+𝜌ij 2 )+4(𝜉i +𝜉j )𝜌ij 2
where i and j are the damping ratios corresponding to modes i and j, respectively, and ij = Ti/Tj.
50
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
6.4.4 Combination of the effects of the components of the seismic action
(1) The action effect due to the combination of the horizontal components of the seismic action may be
calculated as the SRSS of the values of the same action effect due to each horizontal component.
(2) As an alternative to (1), the action effect due to the combination of the horizontal components of
the seismic action may be calculated using Formulas (6.15) and (6.16).
EEdx "+" 0,30 EEdy (6.15)
0,30 EEdx "+" EEdy (6.16)
where
"+" means "to be combined with''; the sign for all terms in a combination should be
taken as the same, such that the combination gives the most unfavorable effect
values for the particular verification under consideration;
EEdx represents the action effect due to the application of the seismic action along the
chosen horizontal axis x of the structure;
EEdy represents the action effect due to the application of the same seismic action along
the orthogonal horizontal axis y of the structure.
(3) (1) may be extended to three components of the seismic action. Alternatively, all three of the
combinations given by Formulas (6.17), (6.18) and (6.19) may be used for the calculation of the action
effects.
EEdx ''+" 0,30 EEdy "+" 0,30 EEdz (6.17)
0,30 EEdx "+" EEdy "+" 0,30 EEdz (6.18)
0,30 EEdx "+" 0,30 EEdy "+" EEdz (6.19)
where
"+" is as in (2);
EEdx and EEdy are as in (2);
EEdz represents the action effect due to the application of the vertical component of
the design seismic action.
NOTE The situations where the vertical component of the earthquake is taken into account are given in the
6.5 Non-linear static analysis

6.5.1 General
(1) The non-linear static analysis method, which is based on a pushover analysis and an equivalent
single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) model, may be applied in case a) or b):
a) to verify the structural performance of newly designed structures;
NOTE Additional requirements are given in prEN 1998-1-2:2022, 5, for new buildings and in prEN 1998-
2:2022 for new bridges.
51
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
b) to assess the structural performance of existing or retrofitted structures as specified in

EN 1998-3 for buildings and bridges.
NOTE 1 Non-linear static analysis is mainly used to verify performance at ULS. It can also be used to verify SLS,
though linear analysis generally suffices for its verification.
NOTE 2 The method is not meaningful for structures not exhibiting a globally ductile behaviour (e.g. tanks).
NOTE 3 Multi-mode methods exist, where multiple pushover analyses are carried with different force
distributions and multiple equivalent SDOF models are established.
(2) Those seismic action effects in the structure and structural members, which are not duly
represented by a pushover analysis, should be corrected by factors, which take into account the effects
of higher modes, torsion, minimum eccentricity and the combination of the horizontal components of
the seismic action.
NOTE Corresponding requirements are given according to the type of structure under consideration in the
(3) When pushover is carried out for assessing an existing structure, the model for the deformation
capacity should account for cyclic degradation of structural members according to 6.2.3(4).
NOTE In general, for new structures, consideration of cyclic degradation is less relevant than for existing ones.
6.5.2 Lateral loads and capacity curve
(1) Lateral forces for pushover analysis should be defined for each horizontal direction of seismic
action and their direction should be that of the considered direction of seismic action.
(2) For each considered direction of seismic action, at least a “modal” pattern of lateral forces should
be applied. The normalised lateral force in the direction under consideration applied at the i-th node of
this load pattern should be defined by Formula (6.20).
𝐹i = 𝑚i 𝜙i (6.20)
where
mi is the mass of the i-th node, in accordance with 6.2.1(3);
𝜙i is the displacement value of mode 𝝓 at the i-th node in the considered direction of
seismic action. Except if otherwise specified, 𝝓 should be the mode of vibration
that corresponds to the largest value of the effective modal mass for the
considered direction of action.
NOTE 1 Eigen modes analysis and the “Ritz modes” method are possible ways to determine the modes of
vibration.
NOTE 2 Complementary rules for the definition of the lateral forces pattern can be found in EN 1998-3.
(3) The set of lateral forces Fi in the direction under consideration applied at the i-th node should be
proportional to the set of 𝐹̅i (𝐹i = 𝛼𝐹̅i ). The total shear force Fb should be taken as given by Formula
(6.21).
𝐹b = ∑ 𝐹i = 𝛼 ∑ 𝐹̅i (6.21)
where  is the pushover factor used to modulate the amplitude of the pushover forces.
(4) The control displacement dn should be selected as the displacement of the control node in the
direction under consideration. The control node should be selected as the node where mode 𝝓 has the
largest component in the direction under consideration. Minor appendages (e.g. structural members on
52
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
the top floor of a building) that can be subject to local amplification of displacement should not be
considered in the selection of the control node.
NOTE Complementary rules for the selection of the control displacement can be found in the relevant part of
EN 1998.
(5) The capacity curve, which is the relationship between the total shear force Fb and the control
displacement dn of the considered multi-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) structure, should be determined by
a pushover analysis.
(6) Pushover analysis should continue until the attainment of a value of the control displacement, du,
corresponding, in any primary member, to ultimate local deformation in a ductile post-elastic
mechanism, or to brittle failure or instability when this occurs first.
NOTE Procedures to calculate the deformation at yield, the ultimate deformations and the resistance to brittle
failure or instabilities in members are given in 7 and in the relevant parts of EN 1998.
6.5.3 Equivalent SDOF system
(1) The equivalent mass m*, the transformation factor , the equivalent force 𝐹 ∗ and the equivalent
displacement 𝑑∗ of the equivalent SDOF system should be determined as given in Formulas (6.22) to
(6.25).
𝑚⋇ = ∑ 𝑚i 𝜙i (6.22)
𝑚∗
𝛤 = ∑𝑚 𝜙 2 (6.23)
i i
𝐹b
𝐹⋇ = 𝛤
(6.24)
𝑑
𝑑∗ = 𝛤𝜙n (6.25)
n
where 𝜙n is the displacement value of mode 𝝓 at the control node in the considered direction of seismic
action.
NOTE Mode shapes 𝝓 are always normalised. Depending on the normalisation criterion, they can be non-
dimensional; in this case only, 𝑚∗ has dimension of mass. Nonetheless, if mode shapes have a dimension, e.g. when
they are normalised for unit modal mass, the mode shape dimension cancels out in the evaluation of the modal
period T* in Formula (6.26). It cancels out also in the evaluation of the yield acceleration 𝐹y∗ /𝑚∗ for the purpose of
Formula (6.29).
(2) The force-deformation relationship 𝐹 ∗ (𝑑∗ ) of the SDOF model may be always idealised as bilinear
if the capacity curve is non-decreasing (Figure 6.1a). If the capacity curve exhibits a peak and a post-
peak negative stiffness branch, the bilinear idealisation may be adopted up to the peak (Figure 6.1b).
NOTE 1 The bilinearisation is sufficient in general for new structures. Annex E gives a procedure for a multi-
linear idealisation of the capacity curve.
NOTE 2 The capacity curve exhibits a peak and post-peak negative stiffness branch as a result of geometric non-
linearities and/or when member models include strength degradation.
53
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Key
A first yield
B peak force
Figure 6.1 — Determination of the bilinear idealisation of the force-deformation relationship in

the case of (a) non-decreasing and (b) decreasing capacity curve
(3) The elastic stiffness k* of a bilinear idealisation should be the secant stiffness to the point of the
capacity curve where first yielding of the primary structure occurs (point A of Figure 6.1), unless a
different value is given in the relevant part of EN 1998.
NOTE For structures other than reinforced concrete and steel, first yielding of the primary structures denotes
the point where the first member enters in the nonlinear range.
(4) The period of the equivalent SDOF model should be calculated as given by Formula (6.26).
𝑚∗
𝑇 ∗ = 2𝜋√ 𝑘 ∗ (6.26)
(5) The yield displacement of the equivalent SDOF model may be calculated according to Formula
(6.27).
2𝐸 ∗ −𝐹m∗ 𝑑∗
𝑑y∗ = ∗
𝑘 ∗ 𝑑m −𝐹m
m
∗ (6.27)
where
𝐹m∗ is the force at point B, defined as the last point on the curve 𝐹 ∗ (𝑑∗ ) if the curve is
non-decreasing, or the point of maximum force if the curve is decreasing;
∗
𝑑m is the displacement corresponding to 𝐹m∗ ;
𝐸∗ is the area under the transformed capacity curve 𝐹 ∗ (𝑑∗ ) up to the point (𝑑m
∗
, 𝐹m∗ ).
(6) The ultimate displacement 𝑑u∗ of the force-displacement curve 𝐹 ∗ (𝑑∗ ) of the SDOF model (Figure
6.1) should be deducted from the ultimate displacement 𝑑u defined in 6.5.2(6) using Formula (6.25).
6.5.4 Target displacement
(1) The target displacement should be defined as the seismic demand derived in terms of
displacement of the SDOF model defined in 6.5.3.
(2) The target displacement of the SDOF model should be derived from the elastic response spectrum
defined in 5.2.2.2, corresponding to the limit state under consideration, accounting, as appropriate, for
the contribution of both horizontal components of the seismic action according to (6).
(3) The target displacement of the SDOF model may be based on Formulas (6.28) or (6.29), as
appropriate. A non-linear response-history analysis may also be used.
54
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
NOTE Annex E gives a procedure for the determination of the target displacement using a non-linear
response-history analysis.
(4) If the SDOF model has a period not shorter than the corner period TC (see 5.2.2.2) (T* ≥ TC), the
target displacement may be assumed equal to the target displacement of the equivalent SDOF model
with unlimited elastic behaviour 𝑑et
∗
(Figure 6.2a), as given by Formula (6.28).
𝑑t∗ = 𝑑et
∗
= 𝑆De (𝑇 ∗ ) (6.28)
where SDe(T*) is the elastic displacement response spectrum defined in 5.2.2.2(13), at period T*, for the
limit state under verification.
(5) The target displacement of the equivalent SDOF model in the short-period range (T* < TC) may be
determined by Formula (6.29) (Figure 6.2b).
1 𝑇
𝑑t∗ = min {3; [1 + (𝑢 − 1) C∗ ]} 𝑑et
∗
(6.29)
𝑢 𝑇
where
𝑆e (𝑇 ∗ )
𝑢 is the force reduction factor equal to 𝑆y
;
𝑆y is the yield acceleration 𝐹y∗ /𝑚∗ of the equivalent SDOF model.
Figure 6.2 — Determination of the target displacement for the equivalent SDOF system
(representation for the case when hardening is neglected)
(6) If the mode under consideration has a non-zero effective modal mass in the horizontal direction
orthogonal to the one considered, the target displacement should be amplified by the correction factor
cdt given by Formula (6.30).
𝛤′ 2
𝑐dt = √1 + ( 𝛤 ) (6.30)
where   is the modal participation factor of the mode in the direction orthogonal to the one under
consideration, defined similarly to  given by Formula (6.23).
NOTE This amplification is consistent with that given in 6.4.4(1) in the case of the force-based approach.
55
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
6.6 Response-history analysis
(1) The time-dependent response of the structure may be obtained through direct numerical
integration of its differential equations of motion, using the input motions selected in accordance with
5.2.3.1.
(2) For each input motion, the peak in time of seismic action effects should be retained.
(3) Unless (4) is applied, a minimum of seven sets of input motions should be used. The average peak
response should be considered for estimating the seismic action effects.
(4) For low and very low seismic action classes, the minimum number of input motions may be
reduced to three. In this case, the most unfavourable peak response should be considered.
(5) For assessing an existing structure, the model for the deformation capacity should account for
cyclic degradation of structural members according to 6.2.3(4).
6.7 Verification to limit states

6.7.1 General
(1) It shall be verified that the action effects in the seismic design situation (see EN 1990:2020, 8.3.2)
do not exceed the corresponding resistance of structural members (see EN 1990:2020, 8.3.5) given in
the relevant part of EN 1998 for the specified limit state.
NOTE Design action effects and design resistance are expressed in terms of (generalised) stresses and/or
(generalised) deformations.
(2) To meet (1), Formula (6.31) should be satisfied for all structural members including connections
and ancillary elements, as required in the relevant part of EN 1998.
𝐸d ≤ 𝑅d (6.31)
where
Ed is the design value of the action effect in the seismic design situation, including
possible influence of second-order effects;
Rd is the corresponding design resistance.
(3) In case a displacement-based approach is used, verification for the SD and NC limit states should be
carried out according to case a) or b):
a) In terms of local deformations, for structural types or materials for which local 'yield'
deformation criteria are given in 7.
b) In terms of displacements of the equivalent SDOF model, for all other structural types and
materials. For the limit state under consideration, the action effect 𝑑t∗ should be calculated
according to 6.5.4(2).
NOTE Masonry structures are examples of structures where definition of a 'yield-like' deformation at the local
level is not available.
(4) Verifications to brittle mechanisms and instabilities shall be performed with an appropriate
reliability.
NOTE Corresponding criteria are given in the relevant parts of EN 1998.
(5) At ultimate limit states (SD or NC), the structure as a whole shall be checked to ensure that it is
stable in the seismic design situation. Both overturning and sliding stability shall be considered.
56
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(6) For the application of (5), the equilibrium may be verified by means of energy balance methods or
by geometrically non-linear analysis.
6.7.2 Verifications to Significant Damage limit state
(1) In case a displacement-based approach is used, in case a) of 6.7.1(3) for verification to SD, the
resistance of ductile mechanisms should be taken as given by Formula (6.32).
1 𝑝𝑙
𝛿SD = 𝛾 (𝛿y + 𝛼SD,θ 𝛿u ) (6.32)
Rd,SD,θ
where
𝛼SD,θ is the portion of the plastic part of the ultimate deformation upl= u – y that
corresponds to the attainment of SD. The value of 𝛼SD,θ is 0,5, unless a different
value is given in the relevant part of EN 1998;
y is the local deformation of the member at yield;
u is the ultimate local deformation of the member in the ductile post-elastic
mechanism;
𝛾Rd,SD,θ is a partial factor on resistance at SD; values of 𝛾Rd,SD,θ are given in the relevant
parts of EN 1998.
NOTE  is the deformation parameter corresponding to the relevant plastic mechanism. For frames,  is the
chord rotation  (see 7).
(2) In case a displacement-based approach is used, in case a) of 6.7.1(3) for verification to SD, the
resistance of brittle mechanisms should be taken as given by Formula (6.33).
𝑉R
𝑉R,SD = 𝛾 (6.33)
Rd,SD,V
where 𝛾Rd,SD,V is a partial factor on resistance at SD. Values of 𝛾Rd,SD,V are given in the relevant parts of
EN 1998.
(3) In case a displacement-based approach is used, in case b) of 6.7.1(3) for verification to SD, the
resistance should be taken as given by Formula (6.34).
∗ 1
𝑑SD =𝛾 [𝑑y∗ + 𝛼SD,d (𝑑u∗ − 𝑑y∗ )] (6.34)
Rd,SD,d
where
𝛼SD,d is the portion of the plastic part of the displacement of the equivalent SDOF
oscillator that corresponds to the attainment of SD; the value of 𝛼SD,d is 0,35,
unless a different value is given in the relevant part of EN 1998;
𝛾Rd,SD,d is a partial factor on resistance at SD; values of 𝛾Rd,SD,d are given in the relevant
parts of EN 1998;
𝑑y∗ is defined in 6.5.3(5);
𝑑u∗ is defined in 6.5.3(6).
57
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(4) It should be verified that both the foundation elements and the foundation soil are able to resist
the action effects resulting from the response of the superstructure without substantial permanent
deformations.
NOTE Relevant criteria are given in prEN 1998-5:2021, 9.
6.7.3 Verifications to additional limit states
(1) In case the NC limit state is used, it should be verified that, under the specified seismic action, the
deformation limits in 7 or other relevant limits given in EN 1998-3 are not exceeded.
(2) In case a displacement-based approach is used, in case a) of 6.7.1(3) for verification to NC, the
resistance of ductile mechanisms should be taken as given by Formula (6.35).
1 𝑝𝑙
𝛿NC = (𝛿y + 𝛿u ) (6.35)
𝛾Rd,NC,θ
where 𝛾Rd,NC,θ ≥ 𝛾Rd,SD,θ is a partial factor on resistance at NC in terms of local deformations. Values of
𝛾Rd,NC,θ are given in the relevant part of EN 1998.
(3) In case a displacement-based approach is used, in case a) of 6.7.1(3) for verification to NC, the
resistance of brittle mechanisms should be taken as given by Formula (6.36).
𝑉R
𝑉R,NC = (6.36)
𝛾Rd,NC,V
where Rd,NC,V ≥ Rd,SD,V is a partial factor on resistance at NC. Values of Rd,NC,V are given in the relevant
part of EN 1998.
(4) In case a displacement-based approach is used, in case b) of 6.7.1(3) for verification to NC, the
resistance is given by Formula (6.37).
∗
𝑑u
∗
𝑑NC = (6.37)
𝛾Rd,NC,d
where 𝛾Rd,NC,d ≥ 𝛾Rd,SD,d is a partial factor on resistance at NC in global terms. Values of 𝛾Rd,NC,d are
given in the relevant part of EN 1998.
NOTE The ultimate capacity is in most cases obtained using local criteria. However, in EN 1998-3, the
verification can be made using a global capacity.
(5) In case the DL limit state is used, it should be verified that, under the specified seismic action, the
deformation limits or other limits defined in the relevant parts of EN 1998 are not exceeded.
(6) In case a displacement-based approach is used, for verification to DL, the resistance should be
∗
taken as 𝑑DL = 𝑑y∗ , calculated according to Formula (6.27), or a smaller limit associated with ancillary
elements according to the relevant part of EN 1998.
NOTE For buildings, limits on interstorey drifts associated with cladding or masonry infills in prEN 1998-1-
2:2022 can be associated to the control displacement and marked on the force-deformation relationship 𝐹 ∗ (𝑑 ∗ ) of
the equivalent SDOF, possibly resulting in values for 𝑑DL
∗
lower than 𝑑y∗ .
(7) In case the OP limit state is used, it should be verified that strains (or generalised deformations
such as drifts) resulting from the corresponding seismic design situation do not exceed deformations
that are acceptable to maintain the function of the critical services in the facility. Resistances should be
based on damage of ancillary components.
58
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
6.8 Structures equipped with antiseismic devices

6.8.1 Scope
(1) 6.8 should be applied to structures equipped with the types of devices as described in a) to d), and
combinations thereof:
a) Rigid Connection Device: device which links two structural members without transmitting
bending moments and vertical loads; this category of devices includes Permanent Connection
Devices, Fuse Restraints and Temporary Connection Devices.
b) Displacement-Dependent Device: device which links two structural members without carrying
vertical loads, whose behaviour is mainly dependent on displacement rather than velocity;
this category of devices includes Linear and Non-Linear Devices.
c) Velocity-Dependent Device: device which links two structural members without carrying
vertical loads, whose behaviour is mainly dependent on velocity rather than displacement;
this category of devices includes Fluid Viscous Dampers and Fluid Spring Dampers.
d) Seismic Isolator: device which links two structural members and carrying vertical loads; this
category of devices includes elastomeric isolators, including those with a plug of lead or
high-damping polymeric material to enhance damping, and sliders, both with curved and
flat surface.
NOTE Additional or specific rules for buildings are given in prEN 1998-1-2:2022, 8 and 9, and for bridges in
EN 1998-2. Additional or specific rules for other type of structures (e.g. tanks) are given in the relevant parts of
EN 1998.
(2) 6.8 should be applied to fully isolated structures, partially isolated structures and structures
equipped with energy dissipation devices.
6.8.2 Basis of design for structures equipped with antiseismic devices
6.8.2.1 Performance requirements
(1) The performance requirements set forth in 4.1 and in the relevant parts of EN 1998, according to
the type of structure considered, shall be satisfied.
(2) The antiseismic devices and their connections to the structure shall be designed with increased
reliability.
6.8.2.2 Compliance criteria
(1) For new structures, the compliance criteria defined in 4.5 should be satisfied.
(2) Non-seismic action effects on the structure should be transmitted to the supporting members
through bearings or antiseismic devices.
(3) In addition to (1), isolated structures should be designed to resist the action effects resulting from
the capacity of the antiseismic devices and the implementation of adequate overlap (seat) length.
(4) The requirements of 6.8.2.1(2) and 6.8.2.2(3) may be considered satisfied if the antiseismic devices
and their connections to the substructure and the superstructure are designed for seismic
displacements and velocities increased by an amplification factor γx equal to 1,5 for elastomeric
isolators and to 2,0 otherwise, except if (5) is applied or when defined otherwise in the relevant part of
EN 1998, for the seismic action associated to SD limit state.
59
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(5) If seismic actions from specific analyses accounting for seismically active fault vicinity according to
5.1.1(5) are used for the design, the amplification factor defined in (4) may be lowered to γx = 1,5.
NOTE This provision comes from the fact that these specific analyses result in amplified seismic action
resulting from application of mapped values.
(6) In fully isolated structures, the capacity design requirement of (3) may be considered satisfied if
the superstructure and substructure are designed for amplified seismic action effects so that the total
horizontal force in the isolation system in the concerned direction corresponds to the displacements
and/or velocities of the antiseismic devices at SD, increased by an amplification factor equal to 1,5.
(7) In isolated structures and in the case that SD limit state is considered, gas lines and other
hazardous lifelines crossing the joints around the isolated structure or part of the structure should be
designed to accommodate safely the relative displacement of the joint, taking into account the
amplification factor specified in (6).
(8) In isolated structures and in the case that DL limit state is considered, it should be verified that all
lifelines of interest crossing the joints around the isolated structure or part of the structure remain in
the elastic range under the corresponding seismic action.
NOTE All lifelines of interest for the verification can be specified by the relevant Authorities or agreed for a
specific project by the relevant parties.
(9) For structures equipped with antiseismic devices, when required for specific structural members
that should remain within the elastic range or the quasi-elastic range, it should be verified that these
members comply with the conditions of the DL limit state, with the seismic action corresponding to the
limit state under consideration.
NOTE These members are given in the relevant part of EN 1998 or are agreed for a specific project by the
relevant parties.
6.8.2.3 General provisions concerning antiseismic devices
(1) Except when (2) is applicable, the antiseismic devices should conform to EN 15129 or should be
covered by an European Technical Assessment (ETA).
NOTE A consequence is that properties used for analysis are those verified by testing as specified in those
documents.
(2) Except when (1) is applied, in low seismic action class, rigid connection devices and bearings
should conform to EN 1337 or should be covered by an European Technical Assessment (ETA).
(3) The essential characteristics of antiseismic devices, as required by EN 15129 or EN 1337 for
the design and testing of the devices, should fulfil the requirements in 6.8.
NOTE These essential characteristics are, for example, displacement capacity, forces, etc. for the design and
testing of the devices according to the product standards. These data are derived from the analysis and the design
of the structure.
(4) Installation, Inspection, Maintenance and Replacement Plan for the antiseismic devices should be
established according to EN 15129.
(5) Sufficient space for the inspection, maintenance and replacement of the antiseismic devices during
the lifetime of the structure should be provided.
(6) When relevant, the antiseismic devices should be protected from potential hazardous effects, such
as fire and chemical or biological attack. The provided protection should not impede the functionality of
the antiseismic devices during an earthquake.
(7) Fire protection of the antiseismic devices should be consistent with the fire requirements for the
structure as a whole. The provided protection should not impede the functionality of the antiseismic
devices during an earthquake.
60
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(8) The antiseismic devices should be designed with consideration to environmental conditions,
including wind, aging effects, ambient temperature, operating temperature, and exposure to moisture
or damaging substances.
(9) The fatigue life of energy dissipation devices, or components thereof, including seals in a fluid
viscous device, should be adequate for the design life of the devices. Devices subjected to failure by low-
cycle fatigue should resist wind action effects in the linear-elastic range.
(10) At supports where relative displacement between supported and supporting members is intended
under seismic conditions, a minimum overlap length should be provided. The overlap length should be
such as to ensure that the function of the support is maintained under seismic displacements amplified
by γx.
(11) The antiseismic devices that carry vertical loads should be sufficiently stiff in the vertical direction.
6.8.2.4 Re-centring capability of isolation system
(1) Requirements for the re-centring capability of the isolation system should be applied in case of
fully isolated structures.
(2) The isolation system should present re-centring capability in both principal horizontal directions,
to prevent a build-up of cumulative displacements.
NOTE This capability is available when the system has small residual displacements in relation to its
displacement capacity.
(3) To ensure adequate re-centring capability of a fully isolated structure, it should be verified that the
condition given by Formula (6.38) is satisfied for a deformation from 0 up to the horizontal seismic
displacement dEd.
ES ≥ 0,25 ED (6.38)
where
ES is the reversibly stored energy (elastic strain energy and potential energy) of
the structure including the isolation system;
ED is the energy dissipated by the antiseismic devices, ED = EDi.
(4) Alternatively to (3), for systems with bilinear behaviour in the horizontal direction and complying
with (5), (2) may be considered satisfied if the condition given by Formula (6.39) is fulfilled. In applying
Formula (6.39), the same properties of the antiseismic devices under dynamic conditions should be
used for the assessment of dEd, F0 and KP.
𝑑Ed 𝐾P
𝐹0
≥ 0,5 (6.39)
where
dEd is the seismic displacement of the isolation system in the considered direction;
KP is the post-elastic (tangent) stiffness;
F0 is the force at zero displacement of the isolation system under cyclic loading
without including the contribution of velocity-dependent devices (see Figure 6.3).
61
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Figure 6.3 — Definition of the equivalent bilinear model for the evaluation of re-centring
capability
(5) The alternative method in (4) may be applied if the deviation of the force-deformation relationship
of the isolation system from its bilinear best fit does not exceed ±15% at any displacement in the range
from 0,3 dEd to 1,0 dEd along the loading branches. For the application of this criterion for purely
frictional systems, the effect of the variation of the vertical load on the force-deformation relationship of
the isolation system may be neglected.
(6) The alternative method in (4) may be used by ignoring the favourable elastic contribution of the
substructure.
NOTE This simplification is conservative.
(7) Systems that do not satisfy (3), or (4) when appropriate, in a certain horizontal direction, may still
be considered to meet the requirements of (2) if the calculated displacements of the isolation system,
including x, are amplified by the factor ρd given by Formula (6.40) to cope with cumulative
displacements. The increased residual displacement evaluated at 2(𝜌d − 1)𝑑Ed /3 should be compatible
with the function of the structure.
2𝑑Ed 𝐾P
𝜌d = 1 + 1,50 (1 − 𝐹0
) ≥ 1,0 (6.40)
where dEd, KP and F0 are defined in (4).
6.8.2.5 Restraint of isolation system
(1) In fully isolated structures, the isolation system should provide sufficient lateral restraint at the
isolation interface to satisfy any relevant requirements of other Eurocodes regarding limitation of
displacements/deformations at SLS.
NOTE For example, this is the case for wind loads in buildings or for breaking loads in bridges.
(2) When Fuse Restraint Devices are implemented at certain locations between the superstructure and
substructure for application of (1), their yield capacity should not exceed 40% of the design seismic
force at SD limit state that is transferred through the isolation interface at the same support and in the
same direction.
(3) When Temporary Connection Devices are used for application of (1), they should be included in
the model for analysis.
6.8.3 Seismic action
(1) The two horizontal and the vertical components of the seismic action should be assumed to act
simultaneously.
62
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(2) If response-history analyses are carried out, at least seven sets of input motions should be used
and should conform to 5.2.3.1 and 5.2.3.2.
(3) In fully isolated structures, for application of D.3(2) and D.3(4), T1 should be replaced by Teff, as
given in 6.8.5.2(5).
6.8.4 Modelling
(1) Modelling of the structure should reflect with sufficient accuracy the spatial distribution of the
antiseismic devices, so that the translation in the two horizontal directions, the corresponding
overturning effects and the rotation about the vertical axis are adequately accounted for. It should also
adequately reflect the properties of the different types of antiseismic devices.
(2) Properties of the antiseismic devices to be used in the analysis should be the most unfavourable
ones to be attained during the lifetime of the structure. They should reflect, where relevant, the
influence of a) to e):
a) effect of frequency of cycling on horizontal mechanical properties;
b) simultaneous vertical forces;
c) simultaneous horizontal forces in the transverse direction;
d) temperature;
e) change of properties over design service life.
(3) Flexible elements of energy dissipation devices connecting damper units to the structure should be
included in the model for analysis.
(4) Multiple analyses should be conducted to bound the effects of the varying properties of the
antiseismic devices. Upper and lower bound design and analysis properties for each antiseismic device
should be determined for each modelling parameter.
(5) In the case of isolated structures, the horizontal flexibility of the substructures, including where
relevant soil-structure interaction, should be accounted for.
(6) In the case of isolated structures, at least two analyses should be performed regardless of the
method of analysis: one using the upper or lower bound design properties of the isolation system,
according to EN 15129, leading to maximum forces in the substructure and superstructure, and one
using the lower or upper bound design properties of the isolation system leading to maximum
displacements of the isolation system and superstructure.
(7) Whenever the non-linear response-history analysis is used, a) to e) should be applied:
a) the model should include the non-linear force-velocity-displacement properties of energy
dissipation devices to explicitly account for the device dependence on amplitude, frequency, and
duration of the seismic motion;
b) the model of displacement-dependent devices should include their hysteretic behaviour in a
way consistent with test data and accounting for all significant changes in strength, stiffness,
and hysteresis loop shape;
c) the model of velocity-dependent energy dissipation devices should include a velocity coefficient
consistent with test data; if damping properties change with time and/or temperature, such
behaviour should be modelled explicitly;
d) if the properties of the energy dissipation devices are expected to change in the range of seismic
action effects issued from the analysis, the dynamic response may be enveloped by the
63
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
maximum and minimum design properties of the device within this range, determined in
accordance with EN 15129;
e) maximum velocity coefficients, stiffness, energy dissipation and strength, if relevant, should be
considered together as the maximum case, and minimum velocity coefficients, stiffness, energy
dissipation and strength, if relevant, should be considered together as the minimum case for
analysis and design.
NOTE Minimum velocity coefficients or energy dissipation are appropriate in many cases to produce
maximum design forces.
6.8.5 Analysis of structures equipped with antiseismic devices
6.8.5.1 General
(1) The dynamic response of the structural system shall be analysed in terms of accelerations, inertia
forces and displacements.
NOTE Analysis methods considered in EN 1998 for structures equipped with energy dissipation systems
and/or for fully isolated structures are the fundamental-mode equivalent linear response-spectrum analysis, the
multi-mode linear or non-linear response-spectrum analysis, the energy-balance based analysis and the non-
linear response-history analysis. The details of application of these methods and their domains of application are
given in the relevant parts of EN 1998.
(2) In isolated structures equipped with velocity-dependent devices in combination with seismic
isolators and/or displacement-dependent devices, the phase difference between maximum
displacements and maximum velocities may be considered for the determination of the combined
action effects so that the total horizontal force of the isolation system in the direction under
consideration corresponds to concurrent values of the increased displacements and/or velocities of the
antiseismic devices specified in 6.8.2.2(4) and (5).
(3) In isolated structures, the non-linear response (if any) of the structural members should be
considered by non-linear response-history analysis.
6.8.5.2 Equivalent linear model
(1) Subject to the condition in (2), the isolation system may be modelled with equivalent linear visco-
elastic behaviour, if it consists of antiseismic devices that show, within the deformation range
corresponding to the limit state under consideration, a softening force-deformation behaviour without
significant stiffening behaviour at large deformations.
(2) To be modelled with equivalent linear visco-elastic behaviour, the effective stiffness of the isolation
system, as defined in (3), should not be less than 1/3 of the effective stiffness at a displacement of 0,2
ddb, where ddb is the design displacement in the seismic design situation, including x.
(3) If an equivalent linear model is used, the effective stiffness of each antiseismic device (i.e. the
secant value of the stiffness at the design displacement ddb in the seismic design situation) should be
used. The effective stiffness Keff of the isolation system should be the composite stiffness of the effective
stiffnesses of all antiseismic devices and the corresponding substructures.
(4) If an equivalent linear model is used, the energy dissipation of the isolation system should be
expressed in terms of an equivalent damping ratio, as the effective damping ξeff given in Formula (6.41).
1 𝛴𝐸D,i
𝜉eff = 2𝜋 [𝐾 2 ] (6.41)
eff 𝑑Ed
where dEd is the seismic displacement of the equivalent SDOF system.
64
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
The energy dissipation in antiseismic devices ED,i should be expressed from the measured energy
dissipated in cycles with frequency in the range of the natural frequencies of the modes involving
deformations of the isolation system considered. For higher modes outside this range, the modal
damping ratio of the complete structure should be that of a non-isolated structure.
(5) If the behaviour of the isolation system can be considered as equivalent linear and the seismic
action is defined using the elastic spectrum as per 5.2.2.2, a damping correction should be performed in
accordance with 5.2.2.2(12), where Τ is the effective period Teff defined by Formula (6.42).
𝑀d
𝑇eff = 2𝜋√ (6.42)
𝑘eff
where Md is the mass of the superstructure, assumed rigid.
6.8.5.3 Fundamental-mode equivalent linear response-spectrum analysis
(1) Fundamental-mode equivalent linear response-spectrum analysis is applicable in fully isolated

structures which respond predominantly as a SDOF system in each horizontal direction.
(2) The behaviour of the isolation system may be modelled as a SDOF system and the fundamental-
mode equivalent linear response-spectrum analysis may be applied if all conditions a) to e) are met:
a) the isolation system may be modelled as equivalent linear, on conditions given in 6.8.5.2;
b) the contribution of higher modes of the superstructure and substructure is not significant;
NOTE The contribution of higher modes is considered not significant when the effective modal mass of the
first mode is not lower than 90%.
c) the effective period of the fully isolated structure is not less than three times the period of the
non-isolated structure;
d) the effective damping ratio of the isolation system, as defined in (4), does not exceed 40% for
curved surface sliders and 30% for all other antiseismic devices;
e) the increase of the restoring force in the isolation system for displacements between 0,5 ddb and
ddb is not less than 2,5% of the total gravity load above the isolation system.
(3) When the effective stiffness or the effective damping of certain antiseismic devices depend on the
design displacement ddb, an iterative procedure should be applied, until the difference between
assumed and calculated values of ddb does not exceed 5% of the assumed value.
(4) The influence of the eccentricity between the effective stiffness centre and the centre of mass of the
superstructure should be considered.
6.8.5.4 Multi-mode equivalent linear or non-linear response-spectrum analysis
(1) The multi-mode equivalent linear or non-linear response spectrum analysis should be applied for
structures with energy dissipation systems and for isolated structures when the contribution of higher
modes of the superstructure and/or substructure is not negligible.
NOTE Contribution of higher modes is not negligible when 6.8.5.3(2)b) is not met.
(2) The multi-mode equivalent linear or non-linear response spectrum analysis may be applied if
conditions c), d), and e) of 6.8.5.3(2) are met.
(3) In the multi-mode equivalent linear or non-linear response spectrum method, the response in the
first modes affected by antiseismic devices should be obtained idealising the structure as an equivalent
SDOF of effective period Teff and effective damping ratio ξeff.
65
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
NOTE The multi-mode non-linear response spectrum analysis used for structures with energy dissipation
systems is a combination of the non-linear static analysis and the response spectrum analysis. For fully isolated
structures the multi-mode equivalent linear response spectrum analysis is a combination of equivalent linear
analysis and the response spectrum analysis.
(4) The mass m*, the transformation factor Γ and the force-displacement relationship of the equivalent
SDOF model F*(d*) should be as defined in 6.5.3.
(5) The effective period Teff should be associated with the secant stiffness at maximum displacement of
the control node, and the effective damping ξeff should be calculated accordingly.
NOTE Guidance for calculation of Teff and ξeff is given in the relevant parts of EN 1998 depending on the type of
structures considered.
(6) The target displacement of the equivalent SDOF system should satisfy conditions a) to c):
NOTE The effective period and the effective damping depend on the final value of the design displacement.
a) it should correspond to the design displacement;
NOTE The design displacement lies on the force-displacement relationship of the SDOF model F*(d*) defined
in 6.5.3.
b) it should be derived as given in 6.5.4, for ξ = ξeff and T = Teff;
c) calculation of the target displacement should be iterative, until the relative variation of the
target displacement between two iterations is lower than 5%.
(7) The response contribution from higher modes should be obtained by applying modal analysis
procedures, using appropriate values for periods and damping ratios.
NOTE Values are given in the corresponding parts of EN 1998 depending on the considered type of structures.
(8) The modal responses should be combined in accordance with 6.4.2.
6.8.5.5 Response-history analysis
(1) In fully isolated structures and if the conditions in 6.8.5.2(2) and 6.8.5.3(2) are not met, the seismic
response should be evaluated by means of a response-history analysis, using a constitutive relationship
of the antiseismic devices that should adequately reproduce the behaviour of the isolation system in the
range of deformations and velocities of the seismic design situation considered.
(2) For structures with antiseismic devices located on sites identified as near fault, each pair of
horizontal input motion components should be rotated to the fault-normal and fault-parallel directions
of the causative faults and applied to the model for analysis in such orientation.
(3) In structures with antiseismic devices, inherent damping ratio (i.e. damping associated with
deformation of members of the main structural system and of ancillary elements, at or just below
yielding of the primary seismic members of the main structural system) should not be taken larger than
3% of critical, unless test data consistent with such levels of deformation support larger values.
(4) In structures with antiseismic devices, maximum values of each seismic action effect should be
calculated for each input motion used for the response-history analysis. Seismic action effects should
include the forces, displacements and velocities (in the case of velocity-dependent devices) in each
individual antiseismic device.
6.8.6 Verifications of antiseismic devices to limit states
(1) For non-seismic situations, the bearings and antiseismic devices should be verified in
accordance with the corresponding requirements of the relevant Eurocodes and, when applicable,
with EN 1337.
66
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(2) At the SD limit state, the maximum displacement demand on an antiseismic device in the seismic
design situation, including long-term deformations, thermal actions and the seismic displacement
magnified by γx, should not exceed the displacement capacity of the antiseismic device.
(3) In isolated structures, at the SD limit state, the maximum rotation demand in the seismic design
situation, including the effects of dead load, live load, construction misalignments and the seismic action
effects magnified by the amplification factor γx, should not exceed the design rotation capacity of the
isolators. If no data are available, the design rotation capacity for the construction misalignment may be
estimated as 0,005 rad.
7 Deformation criteria and strength models

7.1 General
(1) Criteria in 7 should be used in force-based and displacement-based analyses for modelling and
verification of ultimate strengths and deformations.
NOTE 7 gives rules on physical or empirical models for deformation and strength used in analysis. Verification
rules depend on the structures considered and are given in the relevant parts of EN 1998.
(2) 7 should be applied to both primary and secondary seismic members.
NOTE 1 7 does not cover masonry structures. Information can be found for those in EN 1998-1-2 and EN 1998-
3.
NOTE 2 Accurate analytical models to predict the cyclic deformation capacity of aluminium members and joints
are not yet available and for this reason EN 1998 does not provide such data. Design requirements for aluminium
structures for buildings are given in prEN 1998-1-2:2022, 15.
(3) Mechanisms should be classified as ductile or brittle, depending on the material considered and the
structural type.
(4) Except for timber structures (see 7.4), the deformation capacity in rotation of members that yield
in flexure with or without axial force should be defined in terms of the chord rotation, 𝜃, as defined in
Figure 7.1.
NOTE The chord rotation is also equal to the member drift ratio, i.e. the deflection at the end of the shear span
(LV = M/V = moment/shear at the end section, i.e. the point of contraflexure) with respect to the tangent to the axis
at the yielding end, divided by the shear span. In general, since the point of contraflexure is not necessarily at
midspan, the rotations at the two ends are not necessarily the same.
(a) Cantilever (b) Frame member
Figure 7.1 — Definition of chord rotation (θ)
67
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(5) When a bilinear model of the force-deformation relationship at member level is used to represent
ductile behaviour, two damage levels should be defined in terms of deformation thresholds of the
member, which are structurally relevant points along the force-deformation relationship (Figure 7.2),
as given in a) and b):
a) deformation at yield, 𝛿y , corresponding to the attainment of an effective yield resistance, 𝑄y∗ ; it is
linked to the elastic stiffness, 𝐾e , by 𝐾e = 𝑄y∗ ⁄𝛿y ;
b) deformation at ultimate capacity of a member, 𝛿u∗ , corresponding to the attainment of an
effective ultimate resistance, 𝑄u∗ ; it should be calculated based on the deformation at yield, 𝛿y
𝑝𝑙
plus the plastic part of the ultimate deformation capacity, 𝛿u .
This bilinear model should not be used for members in timber structures (see 7.4).
NOTE 1 The ultimate deformation at member level corresponds to a 20% drop in resistance with respect to the
maximum resistance of the primary or secondary member. The effective ultimate resistance is the maximum
resistance. This leads to a slight underestimation of post-yield stiffness in the bilinear model, but no
underestimation of forces transmitted by ductile mechanisms to brittle ones and to a correct estimation of global
resistance (base shear).
NOTE 2 To simplify the wording, in what follows “plastic part of the ultimate deformation capacity” is termed in
brief “plastic deformation capacity” or “plastic chord rotation capacity” where relevant.
Key
A 20% drop from 𝑄u∗
Figure 7.2 — General definition of bilinear load-deformation relationship
(6) A piecewise linear relationship may be used to describe the progressive strength deterioration of
members, when appropriate.
NOTE Only a bilinear relationship is addressed in EN 1998-1-1. However, EN 1998-1-2 and EN 1998-3 give
additional information for the description of multi-branch relationships and to which structural types they can be
applied. Dissipative timber connections and subassemblies are examples of members described by a trilinear
load-deformation relationship.
(7) Values of deformations and resistances used in 7 are mean values.
NOTE 1 Mean values are used for both the analysis and the evaluation of deformation criteria and strength
models given in 7, for the purpose of verifications according to 6.7.2(2) and (3), or 6.7.3(2) and (3). Lower
characteristic values of resistances are used for verifications, according to the appropriate part of EN 1998.
68
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
NOTE 2 For reinforced concrete structures, the deformations in 7 are medians and only slightly underestimate
the mean values. As such they can be used as mean values in the analysis model.
(8) Except when given in 7, the elastic stiffness, 𝐾e , of primary and secondary members under flexure
(with or without axial load) should be calculated considering both flexural and shear deformations.
NOTE The methods to calculate the elastic stiffness are given in the relevant part of EN 1998, depending on
the type of structure and material.
(9) Alternatively to provisions in 7, modelling parameters based on experimentally obtained cyclic
response characteristics of a structural member or subassembly may be used. They should be
determined in accordance with prCEN/TS 1998-1-101:2022 for reinforced concrete, steel, and steel-
composite structures, and in accordance with EN 12512 and prEN 1998-1-2:2022, Annex L, for timber
structures.
7.2 Reinforced concrete structures

7.2.1 General
(1) Mechanisms in reinforced concrete members should be classified as defined in either a) or b):
a) “ductile”: beams, columns and walls under flexure with and without axial force,
b) “brittle”: shear mechanism in beams, columns, walls and joints.
(2) Flexural and shear strength at yield and ultimate should be calculated according to the relevant
part of EN 1998, considering for the materials the mean values of resistance.
(3) Mean values of concrete properties should be taken according to prEN 1992-1-1:2021, Table 5.1.
(4) Characteristic values of reinforcing steel properties should be taken according to prEN 1992-1-
1:2021, Tables 5.4 and 5.5.
(5) The resistance of members at yield, 𝑄y∗ , should be calculated considering a randomness material
factor, rm, equal to 1,15, applied to fyk.
7.2.2 Deformation criteria
7.2.2.1 Concrete members with continuous ribbed bars
7.2.2.1.1 Chord rotation at yielding of the end of a concrete member
(1) The chord rotation, y, of the shear span, LV, at yielding of the end section, may be evaluated using,
as appropriate, a) to c):
a) For rectangular columns, Formula (7.1).
𝐿V +𝑎1 𝜙y 𝑑bL 𝑓y ℎ
𝜃y = 𝜙y 3
+ + 0,0019 (1 + 1,6 𝐿 ) (7.1)
8 √𝑓c V
b) For walls of any cross-sectional shape and members with hollow rectangular section, Formula
(7.2).
𝐿V +𝑎1 𝜙y 𝑑bL 𝑓y ℎ
𝜃y = 𝜙y 3
+ + 0,0011 (1 + 3 𝐿 ) (7.2)
8 √𝑓c V
c) For circular columns, Formula (7.3).
69
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
𝐿V +𝑎1 𝜙y 𝑑bL 𝑓y 𝐿
𝜃y = 𝜙y 3
+ + 0,0025 (1 − min (1; 8 V𝐷)) (7.3)
8 √𝑓c
where
y is the chord rotation at yielding (in rad);

y is the yield curvature from a section analysis of the end section;
h is the section depth;
LV = M/V = moment/shear at the end section, i.e. the point of contraflexure;
D is the diameter of circular sections;
a1 is the tension shift of the bending moment diagram, according to prEN 1992-1-
1:2021, 9.2.1.3(2), Formula (9.2), and 6.2.3 and 8.2.3, with z the internal lever arm
(taken equal to d – d' in beams, columns or walls with barbelled or T-section, or to
0,8 h in walls with rectangular section; it should be taken equal to zero in columns
with clear-height-to-depth ratio above 6,5 or 9 for rectangular or circular section,
respectively, and in wall storeys with total height from the storey base to the top
of the wall in the building greater than 10 times the length of the cross-section);
fy is the longitudinal steel mean yield strength (in MPa);
fc is the concrete mean compressive strength (in MPa);
d and d' are the depths to the tension and compression reinforcement, respectively;
dbL is the (mean) diameter of the tension reinforcement.
NOTE The first term in Formulas (7.1) to (7.3) accounts for the flexural contribution. The second term
represents the anchorage slippage of bars and the third the contribution of shear deformation.
7.2.2.1.2 Ultimate chord rotation of a critical zone at the end of a concrete member
(1) The ultimate chord rotation of a member, θu, may be calculated by Formula (7.4).
pl
𝜃u = 𝜃y + 𝜃u (7.4)
where, in addition to notations in 7.2.2.1.1, 𝜃pl

u is the plastic chord rotation capacity.
(2) If the compression zone is rectangular and at right angles to the web of the member, the plastic
chord rotation capacity may be calculated by Formula (7.5).
pl pl
𝜃u = 𝜅conform 𝜅axial 𝜅reinf 𝜅concrete 𝜅shearspan 𝜅confinement 𝜃u0 (7.5)
where
𝜃u0
pl is the basic value of plastic chord rotation capacity of a member, assuming:
i) the member is detailed for ductility;
ii) zero axial force;
iii) symmetric reinforcement concentrated at opposite ends of the section;
iv) a concrete strength equal to 25 MPa;
v) LV/h = M/Vh = 2,5 (shear-span-to-depth ratio) at the section of maximum
moment.
pl
With these assumptions, 𝜃u0 should be taken equal to:
70
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
= 0,039 rad, if the member is a beam or a column with section consisting of

rectangular parts;
= 0,023 rad, if the member is a rectangular wall;
= 0,027 rad, if the member is a wall with a barbelled T, I, H, or C shape, or hollow
rectangular (box) section;
𝜅conform = 1 for a structure conforming to DC3;
= 0,9 for a structure conforming to DC2;
= 0,8 for a structure in DC1;
𝜅axial = 0,2 is the correction factor for an axial force different than zero;
ν = N/(bhfc) is the normalised axial force (with b the width of the compression zone;
N the axial force, positive for compression);
𝜅reinf max(0,01;𝜔′) 0,25
=[max(0,01;𝜔 ] is the correction factor for asymmetrical reinforcement;
tot −𝜔′)
ωtot = ρtot fy/fc is the mechanical ratio of all longitudinal bars (with 𝜌tot = ∑ 𝐴𝑠 ⁄𝐴𝑐 );
ω' = ' fy'/fc the mechanical ratio of the bars in compression (with 𝜌′ = 𝐴′𝑠 ⁄𝐴𝑐 );
𝜅concrete 𝑓c (MPa) 0,1
=[min (2; 25
)] is the correction factor for concrete strength different than
25 MPa;
𝜅shearspan 1 𝐿 0,35
=[2,5 min (9; ℎv )] is the correction factor for a shear span ratio different than
2,5;
𝛼𝜌sw 𝑓yw
𝜅confinement ( )
=24 𝑓c is the correction factor taking into account the confinement of
concrete due to transverse bars;
fyw is the stirrup mean yield strength (MPa);
sw = Asw/bwsw is the ratio of transverse reinforcement in the direction of shear;
Asw is the area of one layer of transverse reinforcement in the direction of shear;
bw is the width of the cross-section of one web (even in box sections with more than
one parallel webs) which is perpendicular to the direction of shear;
sw is the transverse reinforcement centreline spacing;
 is the global confinement effectiveness factor that may be taken equal to
kconf,b kconf,s as given in prEN 1992-1-1:2021, 8.1.4(4), Table 8.1
(3) For members of any cross-sectional shape (including circular) not covered by (2), 𝜃pl
u may be
calculated by Formulas (7.6) and (7.7).
pl 0,5 𝐿pl
𝜃u = (𝜙u − 𝜙y )𝐿pl (1 − ) + Δ𝜃u,slip (7.6)
𝐿V
𝜙u +𝜙y
Δ𝜃u,slip = 9,5 𝑑bL (7.7)
2
where
y is the yield curvature at the end-section calculated from a section analysis using
71
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
linear elastic material laws until the first component of the section yields;
u is the ultimate curvature at the end-section calculated from a section analysis
according to (4) and using non-linear material laws;
Lpl is the plastic hinge length, given in (6);
Δ𝜃u,slip is the post-yield fixed-end rotation due to yield penetration in the anchorage zone
beyond the yielding end of the member, taken as given by Formula (7.7).
dbL is the longitudinal bar diameter
(4) The ultimate curvature, u, in a critical zone may be taken to occur when one of the ultimate strains
given in a) or b) is reached (whichever happens first):
a) Before spalling of the cover concrete:
− For the tension bars, according to Formula (7.8)
𝜀su = 0,4 𝜀su,nom (7.8)
where
εsu is the ultimate tensile strain of longitudinal bars;
εsu,nom is the uniform elongation at tensile strength in a standard steel coupon test; if
more representative values are not available, it may be taken equal to 0,08 and
0,12 for ductility class B or C steel, respectively.
− For the (unconfined) concrete, according to Formula (7.9)

2
0,0035 ≤ 𝜀c2 = (18,5⁄ℎ (mm)) ≤ 0,01 (7.9)
where h is the depth of the unspalled section.

b) After spalling of the cover concrete:
− For the tension bars, according to Formula (7.10)
4 𝑑bL
𝜀su = 15 𝜀su,nom (1 + 3 𝑠w
) (1 − 0,75 e−0,4𝑁b,compr ) (7.10)
where, in addition to previous notations,

sw is the spacing of the transverse reinforcement;
Nb,compr is the number of bars near the extreme compression fibres (those in the
outermost layer of compression bars for a rectangular compression zone, or 2 in a
circular section, or 1 in a triangular compression zone);
− For the confined concrete core inside the confining outermost transverse steel bars:
i) for a rectangular compression zone, according to Formula (7.11)
𝛼𝜌sv 𝑓yw
𝜀c2,c = 𝜀c2 + 0,04√ 𝑓c
(7.11)
ii) for a circular section, according to Formula (7.12)
72
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
𝛼𝜌sv 𝑓yw
𝜀c2,c = 𝜀c2 + 0,07√ 𝑓c
(7.12)
iii) for a circular section, according to Formula (7.13)
𝛼𝜌sv 𝑓yw
𝜀c2,c = 𝜀c2 + 0,12√ 𝑓c
(7.13)
where, in addition to previous notations,

εc2 is obtained from Formula (7.9) replacing h by the depth of the confined core, ho;
α is the confinement effectiveness factor that may be taken equal to kconf,b kconf,s as
given in prEN 1992-1-1:2021, 8.1.4(4), Table 8.1;
ρsv is the volumetric ratio of transverse reinforcement defined as the volume of
confining hoops over the volume of the core concrete.
(5) For the calculation of the flexural resistance of the confined concrete core, a) to c) may be applied:
a) the increase in compression strength of concrete ∆fcd due to confinement may be taken as given
in prEN 1992-1-1:2021, 8.1.4(1);
b) the strength increase in the confined zones may be taken as given in prEN 1992-1-1:2021,
8.1.4(4);
c) the effect of confinement on the strain limitations in concrete may be determined as given in
prEN 1992-1-1:2021, 8.1.4(5), Formula (8.9a), where 𝜀c2 is the concrete strain at fc which should
be taken equal to 0,002.
NOTE If the calculated flexural resistance of the confined concrete core, at the instant when the most critical
of the applicable ultimate strains in (4)b) takes place, exceeds 80% of the resistance of the full unspalled concrete
section, then case (4)b) determines the magnitude of u; otherwise, case (4)a) governs.
(6) If the ultimate and yield curvatures and the fixed-end rotation due to yield penetration in the
anchorage zone are calculated according to (2) to (4), the plastic hinge length, Lpl, given in a) or b), as
appropriate, may be used in Formula (7.6) for members with detailing and design conforming to
present-generation seismic design codes.
a) For beams or columns with section consisting of rectangular parts, walls of all types, and hollow
piers, Formula (7.14) should be used.
𝐿pl = 𝜆section 𝜆shearspan 𝜆axial (0,3ℎ) (7.14)
where
1 𝑏w
𝜆section = 1 − √min (2,5; max (0,05; ))
3 ℎ
𝐿V
𝜆shearspan = 1 + 0,4 min (9; )
ℎ
𝜆axial = 1 − 0,45 min(0,7; 𝜈)
b) For columns with circular cross-section of diameter, D, Formula (7.15) should be used.
𝐿pl = 𝜆shearspan 𝜆axial (0,7𝐷) (7.15)
73
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
where
1 𝐿V
𝜆shearspan = 1 + min (9; )
7 ℎ
𝜆axial = 1 − min(0,7; 𝜈)
7.2.2.2 Concrete members with ribbed longitudinal bars, lap-spliced starting at the end
section
(1) If longitudinal bars, of diameter dbL, are lap-spliced over a straight length lo which starts at the end
section of the member, both bars in a pair of lapped compression bars may be taken to fully count as
compression reinforcement.
(2) Values of yield moment, curvature and rotation should be taken as given in 7.2.2.1.
NOTE These values are not affected by lap-splice, if the lap splice is conforming.
7.2.3 Resistance to shear
(1) The shear resistance of concrete members should be calculated in accordance with prEN 1992-1-
1:2021, 8.2, replacing the design values of resistance of concrete by mean values and modified
according to (2) to (6).
(2) The value of ddg in prEN 1992-1-1:2021, 8.2.1(4), Formula (8.11), should be taken equal to 16 mm,
corresponding to Dlower = 0.
(3) The value of fywd used in prEN 1992-1-1:2021, 8.2.3(4), Formula (8.27), should be replaced by fywk
and should not be greater than 6/ρw, where ρw is the transverse reinforcement ratio.
(4) The upper limit on the cotangent of the strut inclination angle in prEN 1992-1-1:2021, 8.2.3(3),
and the constant value of factor ν in prEN 1992-1-1:2021, 8.2.3(5), should not be used and prEN 1992-
1-1:2021, 8.2.3(6), should be used instead, with the modifications a) to d):
a) Factor ν in prEN 1992-1-1:2021, Formula (8.32), should be divided by 1,6;
b) Outside the critical regions, the average strain of the two chords in prEN 1992-1-1:2021,
Formula (8.33), should be calculated from prEN 1992-1-1:2021, Formulas (8.34) to (8.38), with
the values of MEd and VEd in the seismic design situation;
c) In member end-zones expected to enter the inelastic range, the average strain of the two chords
in prEN 1992-1-1:2021, Formula (8.33), should be calculated from prEN 1992-1-1:2021,
Formulas (8.34) to (8.38), with the values of MEd and VEd from the analysis multiplied by the
following factor:
− if the analysis is non-linear according to 6.5 or 6.6, by the chord rotation ductility factor at the
nearest member end (where the chord rotation ductility factor is defined as the maximum value
of the chord rotation at a member end during the response) divided by the chord rotation of the
same end at yielding.
− if the analysis is linear elastic with the design spectrum according to 6.4, by the behaviour factor
q.
d) The value of the average strain of the two chords obtained from b) or c) should not be taken
greater than 0,02.
(5) When applying prEN 1992-1-1:2021, 8.2.3(4), Formula (8.29), outside the critical end-regions, the
concrete class should not be considered as greater than C50.
74
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(6) If the compression field is at an inclination to the member axis less than that of the diagonal
connecting the opposite ends of the member's end sections, the calculation of the shear resistance
should be in accordance with prEN 1992-1-1:2021, 8.2.3(12), and the relevant provisions of (2) to (5).
NOTE (6) applies to members with clear length shorter than 2 z cotθ.
(7) In columns, the shear resistance should be calculated in accordance with (1) to (6). Moreover,
prEN 1992:1-1:2021, 8.2.1(7), should be applied, considering as inclined compression force the
diagonal strut which transfers the column axial force in the seismic design situation, from the
compression zone of the column top section in the storey to that of the bottom section.
(8) In walls, sliding shear at horizontal construction joints should be verified according to prEN 1992-
1-1:2021, 8.2.6. The value of coefficient cv1 for the determination of the shear resistance at the
interfaces according to prEN 1992-1-1:2021, 8.2.6(5), should be halved, unless a rigorous value is
experimentally obtained in cyclic tests in similar conditions.
NOTE prCEN/TS 1998-1-101 gives a loading protocol and acceptance criteria for such tests.
7.2.4 Resistance of beam-column joints
(1) The shear force acting on the core concrete of the joints, VEdj, obtained in each seismic design
situation by either a) or b), should not exceed the shear resistance given by (2) to (6):
a) for exterior beam-column joints, by Formula (7.16).
𝑉Edj,ext = 𝛾Rd 𝐴s1 𝑓yk − 𝑉c (7.16)
b) for interior beam-column joints, by Formula (7.17).
𝑉Edj,int = 𝛾Rd (𝐴s1 + 𝐴s2 ) 𝑓yk − 𝑉c (7.17)
where
γRd accounts for overstrength due to steel strain hardening and may be taken equal to
1,2;
As1, As2 are the areas of the top and bottom, respectively, beam longitudinal
reinforcement generating shear in the joint (Figure 7.3);
fyk is the characteristic yield strength of the beam longitudinal reinforcement;
Vc is the shear force in the column above the joint obtained from the analysis in the
seismic design situation (Figure 7.3).
75
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Key
A forces generating shear in the joint
Figure 7.3 — Effective cross-sectional area of the beam-column joint
(2) The resistance of the joint assumed unreinforced, at first cracking, to horizontal shear force, VRj,cr,
may be taken as the mean lower limit to its design shear resistance, as given by Formula (7.18).
𝑁
𝑓 √1 + 𝐴 𝑓Ed 𝐴j,ef if 𝑁Ed > −𝐴c 𝑓ctm
𝑉Rj,cr = { ctm c ctm (7.18)
0 if 𝑁Ed ≤ −𝐴c 𝑓ctm
where
fctm is the mean concrete tensile strength;
NEd is the column axial force in the seismic design situation, taken positive for
compression;
Ac is the full cross-sectional area of the column;
Aj,ef is the effective cross-sectional area of the beam-column joint (Aj,ef = bj,ef hj,ef) (see
Figure 7.3);
bj,ef is the effective joint width, taken as the average of the beams and columns width
at right angles to the direction in which the shear verification of the joint is
carried out;
hj,ef is the effective joint depth, taken as the column depth hc in the direction of the
shear force.
(3) The shear resistance of a reinforced joint after cracking may be taken as the maximum resistance
calculated according to (4) or (5), over all values found for a compression field inclination, θ, in the
concrete within the joint.
(4) If θ < β (Figure 7.4(b)), where tan β is the joint aspect ratio, the shear resistance of the joint, VRj,
may be calculated using Formula (7.19).
76
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
𝑉Rj = 𝑉Rj,min + min { 𝑉Rj,h + 𝑉Rj,c ; 𝑉Rj,v } (7.19)
where
β is the angle between the vertical and the diagonal of the joint: tan β = hc/hb, with
hb denoting the beam depth (Figure 7.4(a));
VRj,min is the minimum joint shear resistance, given by Formula (7.20).
𝑉Rj,min = 𝛼j0 𝑓ctm 𝑏j,ef √ℎc ℎb (7.20)
αjo is a coefficient which may be taken equal to 0,5 for exterior joints and 1,2 for
interior ones;
VRj,h is the contribution of the horizontal reinforcement in zone A of the joint (Figure
7.4(b)), given by Formula (7.21).
𝑉Rj,h = 𝐴sh 𝜎sh + 𝑁jb (7.21)
Ash is the area of the horizontal reinforcement in the joint;

Njb is the axial force in the beam, including the effects of longitudinal prestressing
after all losses, if such axial forces are actually effective throughout the width bj of
the joint, under the non-seismic actions in the seismic design situation;
NOTE In a bridge, for the verification of the pier-deck joint, the horizontal axial force is the deck prestressing
(see EN 1998-2). In buildings, this axial force is usually neglected in a normal configuration, unless it is due to
prestress in the beam or inclination of a member.
sh is the stress in the horizontal reinforcement in the joint, obtained from the
horizontal strain at the centre of the joint, estimated from the strain along the
compression field (assumed to be equal to -0,001) and from the vertical strain at
the centre of the joint, given by Formula (7.22).
𝜎sh = 𝐸s [(𝜀v + 0,001) cot 2 𝜃 − 0,001] ≤ 𝑓yk,h (7.22)
Es is the modulus of elasticity of the reinforcing steel;

εv is the vertical strain at the centre of the joint, given by Formula (7.23).
𝜀v = 𝜎sv⁄𝐸s (7.23)
σsv is the stress in the vertical reinforcement in the joint, with σsv ≥ 0, given by
Formula (7.24).
𝜎sv = [(𝑉Rdj − 𝑉Rdj,min ) cot 𝜃 − 𝑁jc ]/𝐴sv ≤ 𝑓yk,v (7.24)
Asv is the area of the vertical reinforcement in the joint;

Njc is the axial force in the column;
fyk,h, fyk,v are the characteristic values of yield strength of the horizontal and vertical
reinforcement in the joint, with the upper limit given in prEN 1992-1-1:2021,
5.2.2, Table 5.4, using the ratio of the corresponding joint reinforcement,
77
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Ash/(bbhb) and Asv/(bchc);

NOTE As σsv in Formula (7.24) depends on VRj, given by Formula (7.19), iterations are needed.
VRj,c is the contribution of the diagonal concrete compression field in zone B of the
joint (Figure 7.4(c)), given by Formula (7.25).
𝑉Rj,c = 𝜈𝑓cm 𝐴j,ef sin2 𝜃 (cot 𝜃 − cot 𝛽)/1,4 (7.25)
fcm is the mean concrete strength;

ν should be taken from prEN 1992-1-1:2021, Formula (8.32), in terms of the
principal tensile strain ε1, considered to take place at right angles to the
compressive stress field in the concrete and estimated from the strain along the
compression field (assumed to be equal to -0,001) and from the vertical strain εv
at the centre of the joint (Formula (7.23)), according to Formula (7.26).
𝜀1 = 𝜀v + (𝜀v + 0,001) cot 2 𝜃 (7.26)
VRj,v is the contribution of the vertical reinforcement in zone A of the joint, given by
Formula (7.27).
𝑉Rj,v = [𝑁𝑗𝑐 + 𝐴sv 𝜎sv ] tan 𝜃 ≥ 0 (7.27)
(5) If θ > β (Figure 7.4(c)), the shear resistance of the joint, VRj, may be calculated using Formula
(7.28).
𝑉Rj = 𝑉Rj,min + min {tan 𝛽 𝑉Rj,h ; tan 𝛽 𝑉Rj,v + 𝑉Rj,c } (7.28)
where
VRj,min is given by Formula (7.20);
VRj,h is given by Formula (7.29).
𝑉Rj,h = 𝐴sh 𝜎sh cot 𝜃 + 𝑁jb (7.29)
σsh is the stress in the horizontal reinforcement in the joint, with σsh ≥ 0, given by
Formula (7.30).
𝜎sh = [(𝑉Rj − 𝑉Rj,min ) tan 𝜃 cot 𝛽 − 𝑁𝑗𝑏 ]/𝐴sh ≤ 𝑓yk,h (7.30)
NOTE As VRj in Formula (7.28) depends on σsh, given by Formula (7.30), iterations are needed.
VRj,v is given by Formula (7.31).
𝑉Rj,v = 𝑁Ed + 𝐴sv 𝜎sv ≥ 0 (7.31)
σsv is the stress in the vertical reinforcement in the joint, obtained from the vertical
strain at the centre of the joint, estimated from the strain along the compression
field (assumed to be equal to -0,001) and from the horizontal strain at the centre
of the joint, given by Formula (7.32).
78
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
𝜎sv = 𝐸s [(𝜀ℎ + 0,001) tan2 𝜃 − 0,001] ≤ 𝑓yk,v (7.32)
εh is the horizontal strain at the centre of the joint, given by Formula (7.33).
𝜀h = 𝜎sh⁄𝐸s (7.33)
VRj,c is given by Formula (7.34).
𝑉Rj,c = 𝜈𝑓cm 𝐴j,ef cos2 𝜃 (tan 𝜃 − tan 𝛽)/1,4 (7.34)
ν is the strength reduction factor for cracked concrete; it should be taken from
prEN 1992-1-1:2021, Formula (8.32), in terms of the principal tensile strain ε1,
considered to take place along the compressive stress field in the concrete and
estimated from the strain along the compression field (assumed to be equal to -
0,001) and from the horizontal strain εh at the centre of the joint (Formula (7.33)),
according to Formula (7.35).
𝜀1 = 𝜀h + (𝜀h + 0,001) tan2 𝜃 (7.35)
Key
A joint zone outside the diagonal compression field zone
B diagonal compression field zone
Figure 7.4 — Resistance of beam-column joints: a) definition of variables; b) stress conditions

with θ < β; c) stress conditions with θ > β
(6) The beneficial effect of the lateral confinement of the joint by slabs and/or beams connected to the
joint’s lateral faces may be taken into account by multiplying VRj,c given by Formula (7.25) and (7.34) by
the ratio of the total lateral surface area on the two lateral faces of the joint, 2hbhc, to the total surface
area left exposed on these two lateral faces.
(7) In (4) and (5) the inclination of the compression field may be taken as given by Formula (7.36).
𝐴𝑠ℎ 𝑓𝑦ℎ +𝑁𝑗𝑏 𝐴𝑠𝑣 𝑓𝑦𝑣 +𝑁𝑗𝑐
tan 𝜃 ≈ 1,15 + 2,3 𝑏𝑐 ℎ𝑏 𝑓𝑐
− 1,3 min (0,4; 𝑏𝑐 ℎ𝑐 𝑓𝑐
) − 0,275 cot 𝛽 (7.36)
NOTE 1 This approximation gives in general safe-sided estimates of the shear resistance of the joint.
79
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
NOTE 2 As a further simplification, it is always possible and in general safe-sided to neglect the contribution of
the joint reinforcement and of axial compression in the connected members to the shear resistance of the joint
and take the later as equal to the maximum of VRj,min and VRj,cr.
7.3 Steel and composite steel-concrete structures

7.3.1 General
(1) The resistance at yield, 𝑄y∗ , of members should be calculated considering the randomness material
factor, rm, given in Table 7.1.
Table 7.1 — Material overstrength factor rm

Steel grade rm
S235 1,45
S275 1,35
S355 and S420 1,25
S460 1,2
NOTE Multiplication of the nominal strength 𝑓y by

the randomness material overstrength factor yields
the mean value 𝑓ym to be used according to 7.1(7).
(2) Except when (3) applies, formulas in 7.3 should be used only in their range of applicability given in
Table 7.2 for different types of cross-sectional profiles (Figure 7.5).
(3) Formulas in 7.3 may be used outside the range of applicability given in Table 7.2 only when 7.1(9)
is not applicable.
Table 7.2 — Range of applicability of formulas in 7.3

Cross-sectional Member Axial load Mean yield
Member
geometry slenderness ratio stress (MPa)
Steel and composite 20 ≤ 𝑐/𝑡w ≤ 55 20 ≤ 𝐿b /𝑖z ≤ 100

- 240 ≤ 𝑓ym ≤ 450
steel-concrete beams 4 ≤ 𝑏f /2𝑡f ≤ 8 2,5 ≤ 𝐿o /ℎ ≤ 8
I- and H-shaped hot- 4 ≤ 𝑏f /2𝑡f ≤ 8

38,4 ≤ 𝐿b /𝑖z ≤ 120 0 ≤ 𝑣G ≤ 0,50 235 ≤ 𝑓ym ≤ 485
rolled columns 1,82 ≤ 𝑏f /2𝑡f ≤ 8,52
HSS columns 15 ≤ 𝑑/𝑡 ≤ 60 - 0 ≤ 𝑣G ≤ 0,50 235 ≤ 𝑓ym ≤ 520
where, in Table 7.2,

𝐿b /𝑖z is the member slenderness ratio of the steel beam or column (Figure 7.5a);
ℎ is the full depth of the cross section (Figure 7.5b);
𝐿o is the shear span of the steel beam (Figure 7.5a);
𝐿b is the unbraced length of the steel beam (Figure 7.5a) or column;
𝑐/𝑡w is the web slenderness ratio of the cross section;
𝑏f /2𝑡f is the flange slenderness ratio of the cross section;
𝑖z is the radius of gyration of a steel cross section with respect to its weak axis;
80
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
𝑓ym is the mean yield stress of the steel material of the steel beam or column;
𝑣G is the axial load ratio of the steel column due to the non-seismic actions in the
seismic design situation and 𝑣G = 𝑁Ed,G /𝑁pl,e ;
𝑁Ed,G is the axial load demand of the column due to non-seismic actions in the seismic
design situation;
𝑁pl,e is the expected axial yield resistance of the column (= 𝜔rm 𝑓y 𝐴c );
𝐴c is the cross-sectional area of the steel column;
𝑑 is the depth of the edge of the respective HSS cross section parallel to the
direction of the seismic action (Figure 7.5c);
𝑡 is the thickness of the HSS cross section (Figure 7.5c);
Key
A moment gradient
B inflection point
Figure 7.5 — Definitions of geometric parameters for steel members
7.3.2 Beams and columns under flexure with or without axial load
7.3.2.1 General
(1) 7.3.2 should be applied to steel beams in either a) or b):

a) steel and composite steel-concrete beams with rigid full-strength moment resisting beam-to-
column joints complying with requirements associated to DC2 and DC3;
b) steel and composite steel-concrete beams with semi-rigid, partial-strength moment resisting
beam-to-column joints when the dissipative zone is expected to occur within the beam and
beam-to-column joints complying with requirements associated to DC2 and DC3.
7.3.2.2 Deformation at yield
(1) Where the point of contraflexure is anticipated to occur at midspan of a steel or composite steel-
concrete beam with rigid full-strength beam-to-column joints (Figure 7.1b), the yield chord rotation y
of a member where a plastic hinge can form is given by Formula (7.37).
𝐿(1+𝑛) ∗
𝜃y = 6𝐸𝐼
𝑀y (7.37)
81
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
where
𝑀y∗ is the effective flexural resistance at yield given in 7.3.2.3 to 7.3.2.6, as
appropriate;
EI is the cross-sectional rigidity of the steel or composite steel-concrete beam (and
steel column); for composite steel-concrete beams, it should be calculated as the
effective flexural stiffness, (𝐸𝐼)eff,II , according to EN 1994-1;
L is the assumed clear member length (see Figure 7.5a);
G is the shear modulus of steel;
n is a shear deformation contribution factor, given by 𝑛 = 12𝐸𝐼/𝐿2 𝐺𝐴eff ;
𝐴eff is the effective shear area of the cross section. For I-shape sections, it is given by
𝐴eff = 𝐴w = (ℎb − 2𝑡f )𝑡w
NOTE Where shear deformation in a beam does not change the component deformation by more than 5% or
is not included in the analysis of the mathematical model, 𝑛 may be assumed equal to zero.
(2) The yield chord rotation y of a member where a plastic hinge can form in a beam with partial-
strength beam-to-column joints may be determined according to prEN 1998-3:2022, 9, or by tests.
NOTE prCEN/TS 1998-1-101 gives a loading protocol and acceptance criteria for such tests.
(3) Where the point of contraflexure is anticipated to occur at midspan of a beam with partial-strength
beam-to-column joints, the yield chord rotation y of a member where a plastic hinge can form may be
taken as given by Formula (7.38).
𝜃𝑦 = 0,005 rad (7.38)
(4) Other than in (3), the yield chord rotation y of a member where a plastic hinge can form, with
partial-strength beam-to-column joints, should be calculated according to Formula (7.39).
𝜃y = 0,003 rad (7.39)
7.3.2.3 Steel beams with rigid full-strength beam-to-column joints
(1) The effective flexural resistance at yield, 𝑀y∗ , of a steel beam may be calculated using Formula
(7.40).
𝑀y∗ = 𝛽𝜔rm 𝑀Rk (7.40)
where
𝛽 should be equal to 1,1 regardless of the full-strength connection type;
𝑀Rk is the characteristic flexural resistance of the steel beam for strong axis bending
and should be calculated according to prEN 1993-1-1:2021, 8.2.5; for joints with
reduced beam sections (RBS), 𝑀Rk should be calculated according to prEN 1998-
1-2:2022, Annex E, E.2.3.7.
NOTE 1 For steel beams with RBS, the dissipative zone is assumed at the centre of the RBS region.
NOTE 2 The parameter 𝛽 is an adjustment factor to represent the effects of cyclic hardening.
(2) The effective flexural resistance at yield, 𝑀y∗ , of steel beams should be corrected for the effects of
lateral torsional buckling according to prEN 1993-1-1:2021, 8.3.5.
82
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(3) The effective flexural resistance at ultimate, 𝑀u∗ , of steel beams should be calculated based on a
factored value of the effective yield resistance, 𝑀y∗ , using Formula (7.41).
𝑀u∗ = 1,1 𝑀y∗ (7.41)
pl
(4) The plastic chord rotation capacity, 𝜃u , for flexural hinges of standard steel beams and beams with
RBS should be calculated using Formulas (7.42) and (7.43), respectively.
pl 𝑐 −0,9 𝑏 −1,1 𝐿 −0,2 𝐿 1,1 𝐸 0,2

𝜃u = 0,50 (𝑡 ) (2𝑡f ) ( 𝑖b) ( ℎo ) (𝑓 ) (7.42)
w f 𝑧 y𝑚
−0,5 −0,7 𝐿 −0,5 𝐿 0,8 0,23

pl 𝑐 𝑏 𝐸
𝜃u = 0,25 (𝑡 ) (2𝑡f ) ( 𝑖 𝑏) ( ℎo ) (𝑓 ) (7.43)
w f z ym
7.3.2.4 Composite steel-concrete beams with rigid full-strength beam-to-column joints
(1) 7.3.2.4 should be applied to steel beams with partial and full composite action in accordance to
EN 1994-1-1.
(2) The effective flexural resistance at yield, 𝑀y∗ , should be defined separately for sagging (slab in
compression) and hogging (slab in tension) bending for a composite steel-concrete beam, as shown in
Figure 7.6.
(3) The effective flexural resistance at yield, 𝑀y∗+ , of the composite steel-concrete beam under sagging
should be calculated as given in EN 1994-1-1.
(4) The effective flexural resistance at ultimate, 𝑀u∗ , should be defined separately for sagging and
hogging bending for a composite steel-concrete beam, as shown in Figure 7.6.
(5) The effective flexural resistance at ultimate, 𝑀u∗+ , of the composite steel-concrete beam under
sagging should be calculated using Formula (7.44).
𝑀u∗+ = 1,3 𝑀y∗+ (7.44)
(6) The effective flexural resistance at ultimate, 𝑀u∗− , of a composite steel-concrete beam under
hogging may be calculated in accordance with Formula (7.41).
83
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Figure 7.6 — Adjusted bilinear load-deformation relationship for composite

steel-concrete beams under sagging: solid line represents the steel beam;
dashed line represents the composite steel-concrete beam
pl,+
(7) The plastic chord rotation capacity, 𝜃u , of composite steel-concrete beams under sagging, should
be calculated using Formula (7.45).
pl,+ pl
𝜃u = 1,5 𝜃u (7.45)
pl
where 𝜃u is given by Formulas (7.42) or (7.43), depending on the beam-to-column connection type.
pl,−
(8) The plastic chord rotation capacity, 𝜃u , of composite steel-concrete beams under hogging, should
be calculated using Formula (7.42) or (7.43) depending on the beam-to-column connection type.
7.3.2.5 Beams in semi-rigid and partial strength beam-to-column joints
(1) 7.3.2.5 should be applied to steel beams in semi-rigid and partial-strength moment resisting beam-
to-column joints that are expected to develop a plastic hinge within the steel beam.
(2) For partial-strength beam-to-column joints with two or more failure modes, the hysteretic
behaviour of the joint should be defined according to the weakest failure mechanism. In this case the
modelling procedures in prEN 1998-3:2022, 9, should be applied.
(3) The effective flexural resistance at yield, 𝑀y∗ , (Figure 7.2) of partial-strength beam-to-column joints
should be calculated in accordance with prEN 1998-1-2:2022, 11, 12, Annexes E, G, or based on testing.
7.3.2.6 Steel columns
7.3.2.6.1 General
(1) 7.3.2.6 should be applied to hot-rolled I-, H-shaped steel columns, steel columns made of HSS
sections fabricated of cold roll-forming or press-forming and built-up steel columns.
84
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(2) When the point of contraflexure is anticipated to occur at the midspan of the column, the yield
chord rotation y of the member where a plastic hinge can form should be calculated using Formula
(7.46).
𝐿(1+𝑛) ∗
𝜃y = 𝑀
6 𝜈b 𝐸𝐼 y
(7.46)
where n is as given in 7.3.2.2 and νb is given by Formula (7.47).

|𝑁Ed |
1,0 , 𝑖𝑓 𝑁pl,e
≤ 0,50
𝜈b = { |𝑁 | |𝑁 | |𝑁Ed |
(7.47)
4 𝑁 Ed (1 − 𝑁 Ed ) , 𝑖𝑓 𝑁pl,e
> 0,50
pl,e pl,e
where 𝑁Ed is the compressive or tensile axial force of the column in the seismic design situation.
(3) Depending on the location of the inflection point within the column member, the flexural stiffness
contribution should be adjusted accordingly.
(4) The effective flexural resistance at yield, 𝑀y∗ , of I-, H-shaped and HSS steel columns should be
calculated by solving the relevant interaction equation depending on the axis of buckling, with respect
to 𝑀y,Ed for combined bending and axial compression according to prEN 1993-1-1:2021, 8.3.3, and
multiplied by 1,15 𝜔rm to account for the effects of cyclic hardening and the steel material randomness.
The compressive axial load 𝑁Ed should be taken as that due to the non-seismic actions in the seismic
design situation.
(5) The effective flexural resistance at ultimate of a steel column, 𝑀u∗ , may be calculated using Formula
(7.48).
𝑀u∗ = 𝑎∗ 𝑀y∗ (7.48)
where 𝑎∗ is the effective hardening ratio given in (6) or (7) as appropriate.

(6) The effective hardening ratio, 𝑎∗ , may be calculated using Formula (7.49) for I- and H-shaped steel
columns.
𝑐 −0,4 𝐿 −0,16
1,0 ≤ 𝑎∗ = 7,6 (𝑡 ) ( 𝑖 b) (1 − 𝑣G )0,2 ≤ 1,2 (7.49)
w z
(7) The effective hardening ratio, 𝑎∗ , should be taken equal to 1,1 for HSS columns.
7.3.2.6.2 Interior columns

pl
(1) The plastic chord rotation capacity, 𝜃u , of I- and H-shaped steel columns may be calculated using
Formula (7.50).
pl 𝑐 −0,95 𝐿b −0,5
𝜃u = 7,37 ( ) ( ) (1 − 𝑣G )2,4 ≤ 0,15 rad (7.50)
𝑡w 𝑖z
pl
(2) The plastic chord rotation capacity, 𝜃u , of HSS columns may be calculated using Formula (7.51).
pl 𝑑 −1,15
𝜃𝑢 = 1,4 ( 𝑡 ) (1 − 𝑣G )1,8 ≤ 0,10 rad (7.51)
85
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
pl
(3) The plastic chord rotation capacity, 𝜃u , of I-, H-shaped and HSS columns with 𝑣G > 0,50, or with
𝑐/𝑡w > 43 and 𝐿b /𝑖z > 120 should be taken equal to zero.
7.3.2.6.3 Exterior columns
(1) Exterior columns that experience variations in axial load demands due to dynamic overturning
effects may be modelled based on 7.3.2.6.2 by considering only 𝑣G .
(2) The transient load due to overturning effects may be neglected in resistance models for
assessment of exterior I- and H-shaped columns.
7.3.2.7 Encased or filled composite columns
7.3.2.7.1 General
(1) 7.3.2.7 should be applied to encased or filled composite columns.

(2) When the point of contraflexure is anticipated to occur at midspan of the column, the yield chord
rotation y of the member where a plastic hinge can form should be calculated using Formula (7.52).
𝐿
𝜃y = 𝑀∗ (7.52)
6𝐸𝐼 y
where
EI is the effective flexural stiffness, (𝐸𝐼)eff,II , according to EN 1994-1-1;
L is defined according to 7.3.2.2.
(3) 7.3.2.6.1(3) should be applied.
(4) The effective flexural resistance at yield, 𝑀y∗ , of encased or filled composite columns should be
calculated according to prEN 1994-1-1:2021, 6.7.
(5) The effective flexural resistance at ultimate, 𝑀u∗ , of encased or filled composite columns may be
calculated using Formula (7.53).
𝑀u∗ = 1,1 𝑀y∗ (7.53)
7.3.2.7.2 Interior columns

pl
(1) The plastic chord rotation capacity, 𝜃u , of filled composite square or rectangular columns may be
pl
𝜃𝑢 = 3,5 𝜃𝑦 ≤ 0,04 rad (7.54)
pl
(2) The plastic chord rotation capacity, 𝜃u , of filled composite circular columns may be calculated
using Formula (7.55).
pl
𝜃𝑢 = 5,0 𝜃𝑦 ≤ 0,06 rad (7.55)
pl
(3) The plastic chord rotation capacity, 𝜃u , of interior encased columns with H- or I-shaped steel
profiles may be calculated according to 7.3.2.6.2 by neglecting the influence of concrete on the plastic
deformation capacity.
86
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
7.3.2.7.3 Exterior columns

pl
(1) The plastic chord rotation capacity, 𝜃u , of filled composite square or rectangular columns may be
pl
𝜃u = 2,0 𝜃y ≤ 0,03 rad (7.56)
pl
(2) The plastic chord rotation capacity, 𝜃u , of filled composite circular columns may be calculated
pl
𝜃𝑢 = 2,5 𝜃y ≤ 0,03 rad (7.57)
pl
(3) The plastic chord rotation capacity, 𝜃u , of exterior encased columns with H- or I-shaped steel
profiles should be calculated according to 7.3.2.6.3 by neglecting the influence of concrete on the plastic
deformation capacity.
(4) The transient load due to overturning effects should not be neglected in resistance models for
assessment of exterior filled composite columns.
7.3.3 Steel bracings
7.3.3.1 General
(1) 7.3.3 should be used for hot-rolled or built-up I-, H-shaped, single or double angle (L), single or
double channel (C), hollow rectangular or square and hollow circular structural steel bracings.
(2) The bilinear non-symmetric cyclic envelope in tension and compression should be taken as in
Figure 7.7(a) and 7.7(b) for a steel brace in tension and compression, respectively.
Figure 7.7 — Idealised force-deformation relationship for steel bracings
NOTE The deformation 𝛿ut , in Figure 7.7 corresponds to the axial elongation at incipient brace fracture in
tension. The axial displacement 𝛿ub , corresponds to the axial contraction of buckling bracings at a reserve axial
compressive strength of no more than 20% of the expected buckling resistance of the bracing.
7.3.3.2 Axial resistance of steel bracings
(1) The effective axial resistance at yield in tension, 𝑁pl,e , and the expected axial resistance at buckling,
𝑁b,e , of a steel brace should be calculated according to Formulas (7.58) and (7.59), respectively.
𝑁pl,e = 𝜔rm 𝑓y 𝐴 (7.58)
87
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
𝑁b,e = 𝜔rm 𝑁b,Rd (7.59)
where
rm is the material randomness factor given in 7.3.1;

𝑓y is the nominal yield stress of the steel brace;
𝐴 is the cross-sectional area of the steel brace;
𝑁b,Rd is the buckling resistance of the steel brace according to prEN 1993-1-1:2021, 8.3.
(2) The effective axial resistance at ultimate of the steel brace in tension and compression, as shown in
Figure 7.7, should be calculated according to Formulas (7.60) and (7.61), respectively.
𝑁ut = 𝑁pl,e (7.60)
𝑁uc = 0,20 𝜔rm 𝑁b,Rd (7.61)
7.3.3.3 Axial displacement at yield and at buckling
(1) The steel brace axial displacement at yield in tension, 𝛿t , and at buckling in compression, 𝛿c , should
be calculated according to Formulas (7.62) and (7.63), respectively.
𝑁pl,e 𝐿ee
𝛿t = (7.62)
𝐸𝐴
𝑁b,e 𝐿ee
𝛿c = (7.63)
𝐸𝐴
where Lee is the end-to-end bracing length.
7.3.3.4 Axial displacement at ultimate
(1) The axial displacement at ultimate conditions in compression, 𝛿uc , (Figure 7.7) should be calculated
using Formula (7.64) for I-, H-shaped, double angle (L) and double channel (C) bracings buckling in-
plane, Formula (7.65) for bracings with circular hollow sections, Formula (7.66) for bracings with
rectangular or square hollow sections and Formula (7.67) for single angle (L) bracings.
0,4
𝜆f −1,7 𝐿 𝜔rm 𝑓y
𝛿uc = 5,6 ( ) ( 𝑖cr √ 𝐸 ) 𝛿b (7.64)
𝜆Cl.1
0,45
𝛿uc = 5,5 (𝜆 ) ( 𝑖cr √ 𝐸 ) 𝛿b (7.65)
Cl.1
1,0
𝜆f −1,0 𝐿cr 𝜔rm 𝑓y
𝛿uc = 3,75 (𝜆 ) ( 𝑖 √ 𝐸 ) 𝛿b (7.66)
Cl.1
𝜆f −1,7
𝛿uc = 12 (𝜆 ) 𝛿b (7.67)
Cl.1
where
𝜆f is the width-to-thickness ratio, 𝑐/𝑡 (or ℎ/𝑡), for the flange of I-, H-shaped, angle,
rectangular or square hollow sections and channel bracings; for circular hollow
sections, 𝜆f is equal to 𝑑e /𝑡 according to prEN 1993-1-1:2021, 7.6;
88
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
𝜆Cl.1 is the limit of width-to-thickness ratio for class 1 for members in compression
according to prEN 1993-1-1:2021, 7.6;
𝐿cr is the buckling length in the buckling plane considered according to prEN 1993-1-
1:2021, 8.3;
𝑖 is the radius of gyration of the bracing cross section in the buckling plane.
(2) The axial displacement at ultimate conditions in tension, 𝛿ut , (Figure 7.7) should be calculated using
Formula (7.68) for I-, H-shaped, double angle (L) and double channel (C) bracings buckling in-plane,
Formula (7.69) for bracings with circular hollow sections, Formula (7.70) for bracings with rectangular
or square hollow sections, and Formula (7.71) for single angle (L) bracings.
0,4
𝛿ut = 3,4 (𝜆 ) ( 𝑖cr √ 𝐸 ) 𝛿y (7.68)
Cl.1
0,45
𝛿ut = 3,2 (𝜆 ) ( 𝑖cr √ 𝐸 ) 𝛿y (7.69)
Cl.1
0,24
𝜆f −1,0 𝐿cr 𝜔rm 𝑓y
𝛿ut = 5,8 ( ) ( √ ) 𝛿y (7.70)
𝜆Cl.1 𝑖 𝐸
𝜆f −1,7
𝛿ut = 7,2 (𝜆 ) 𝛿y (7.71)
Cl.1
(3) For tension-only steel bracings, the corresponding deformation capacities at ultimate conditions
from Formulas (7.64) to (7.71) should be divided by 2,0.
7.3.4 Beam-to-column web panel joint
7.3.4.1 General
(1) The beam-to-column web panel flexibility should be considered in a frame analysis.
(2) If supplementary web plates are used to ensure elastic behaviour of the web panel, they may be
modelled with rigid end-offsets from the joint centreline. Otherwise, the beam-to-column web panel
should be modelled with rigid beam-to-column elements to form a parallelogram of dimensions ℎb (i.e.
beam depth) by ℎc (i.e. column depth).
(3) A trilinear rotational concentrated plasticity element may be used to model the beam-to-column
web panel joint as shown in Figure 7.8. In this case, flexural hinges should be placed at the remaining
outer three corners of the beam-to-column web panel.
(4) The flexural resistance at yield of the idealised web panel model in non-composite beam-to-column
joints should be calculated using Formula (7.72).
𝑀y = 𝑉y ℎb (7.72)
where
ℎb is the beam depth (see Figure 7.8);
𝑉y is the shear resistance at yield of the web panel and should be calculated
according to prEN 1998-1-2:2022, 11.9.4.
89
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(5) The full plastic flexural resistance of the web panel, 𝑀pl , if web stiffeners are installed, should be
𝑀pl = 𝑉p ℎb (7.73)
where Vp is given by Formula (7.74).
3𝑏 𝑡 2
0,60 𝑓y ℎc 𝑡p (1 + ℎ ℎc cf ) 𝑖𝑓 𝑁 ≤ 0,75 𝑁b,Rd
b c 𝑡p
𝑉p = { (7.74)
3𝑏 𝑡 2 1,2𝑁
0,60 𝑓y ℎc 𝑡p (1 + ℎ ℎc cf
𝑡
) (1,9 − 𝑁 ) 𝑖𝑓 𝑁 > 0,75 𝑁b,Rd
b c p b,rd
(6) Exterior beam-to-column web panel joints in the presence of a floor slab should be modelled with a
non-symmetric load-deformation relationship. When the slab is in compression, Formula (7.75) should
be used for calculating 𝑀𝑦+ .
+
𝑀y+ = 𝑉y ℎeff = 𝑉y (ℎb − ℎrib + 0,5 𝑡sl − 0,5 𝑡f ) (7.75)
where
ℎrib is the depth of the ribbed cross-section of the steel deck (Figure 7.8a);
𝑡sl is the slab thickness above the steel deck (Figure 7.8a).
(7) When the slab is in tension, the effective depth (Figure 7.8a) may be taken as the one of the bare
steel web panel and 𝑀y− may be calculated using Formula 7.72.
(8) Interior composite web panel joints should be modelled with a symmetric load-deformation
relationship due to the effectiveness of the slab in both loading directions.
7.3.4.2 Shear distortion at yield
(1) The yield shear distortion, 𝛾y , of the web panel should be calculated using Formula (7.76).
𝛾y = 𝑓y ⁄√3 𝐺 (7.76)
where G is the shear modulus of the steel material.
Key
A flexural hinge
B beam plastic hinge
C column plastic hinge
90
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
D column
E web panel plastic hinge
F beam
G rigid links
Figure 7.8 — Beam-to-column joint web panel and model idealisation for non-linear static
analysis
7.3.4.3 Shear distortion at ultimate
(1) The shear distortion at ultimate, 𝛾p , of the web panel (see Figure 7.8) should be considered equal to
4 𝛾y .
7.3.5 Links in frames with eccentric bracings
(1) 7.3.5 should be used for eccentrically braced frame (EBF) links designed in accordance with
prEN 1993-1-2:2021, 11.11 and 12.11.
(2) The load-deformation model for an EBF link beam should include shear and flexural deformations.
(3) The yield shear distortion, y, of the link beam may be taken as given by Formula (7.77).
𝑒 3 (1+𝑛) ∗
𝛾y = 𝑄y (7.77)
12𝐸𝐼
where
𝑄∗y is equal to 𝑉𝑦∗ given in (5) or equal to V given in (6), as appropriate;
𝑒 is the length of the link beam;

𝑛 is as given in 7.3.2.2.
(4) The effective resistance at yield of the link beam should be calculated either by the shear resistance
at yield, 𝑉y∗, or by the flexural resistance at yield, 𝑀y∗. Where flexural yielding is the primary failure
mode, the effective resistance at yield should be converted to the resultant shear demand, V.
(5) For shear yielding, the effective shear resistance at yield of the link beam should be calculated
|𝑁Ed |
for 𝑁pl,e
≤ 0,2 0,6 𝜔rm 𝑓y 𝐴v
𝑉y∗ = 2 (7.78)
|𝑁Ed | |𝑁Ed |
for 𝑁pl,e
> 0,2 0,6 𝜔rm 𝑓y 𝐴v √1 − (𝑁 )
pl,Rd
{
where 𝐴v is the effective shear area of the cross-section; it should be calculated using a) or b):
a) for an I- or H-shaped section, 𝐴v = (𝑑b − 2𝑡f )𝑡w;
b) for a box section, 𝐴v = 2(𝑑b − 2𝑡f )𝑡w.
(6) For flexural yielding, the effective shear resistance at yield, V, of an EBF link should be calculated
91
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
2 𝑀y∗
𝑉= 𝑒
(7.79)
where 𝑀y∗ should be calculated according to 7.3.2.3 when the axial load is not present in the EBF link,
while 7.3.2.6.1 should be used otherwise.
(7) The effective resistance at ultimate, 𝑄c,u
∗
, should be calculated by assuming 3% strain hardening.
(8) For |𝑁Ed |⁄𝑁pl,e < 0,2 and 𝑒 ≤ 1,6 𝑀y∗ /𝑉y∗ (shear-controlled), the shear distortion at ultimate
conditions, 𝛾𝑝 , of the EBF link should be taken equal to 0,15 rad.
(9) For |𝑁Ed |⁄𝑁pl,e < 0,2 and 𝑒 ≥ 2,6 𝑀y∗ /𝑉y∗ (flexure-controlled), EBF links should be modelled as
steel beams according to 7.3.2.1 or steel columns according to 7.3.2.6.
(10) For |𝑁Ed |⁄𝑁pl,e < 0,2 and 1,6 𝑀y∗ /𝑉y∗ < 𝑒 < 2,6 𝑀y∗ /𝑉y∗ (shear-flexure), a linear interpolation
between values given in (8) and (9) should be used.
(11) For |𝑁𝐸𝑑 |⁄𝑁pl,e ≥ 0,2 and 𝑒 ≤ 1,6 𝑀y∗ /𝑉y∗ (shear-controlled), the shear distortion at ultimate
conditions, 𝛾p , of the EBF link should be calculated using Formula (7.80).
5 |𝑁Ed |
𝛾p = 0,225 (1 − ) ≥0 (7.80)
3 𝑁pl,e
(12) For |𝑁𝐸𝑑 |⁄𝑁pl,e ≥ 0,2 and 𝑒 ≥ 2,6 𝑀y∗ /𝑉y∗ (flexure-controlled), then EBF links should be modelled
as steel beams with rotational plastic hinges at the two ends. The rotations and flexural resistances at
yield and ultimate of these hinges should be calculated according to 7.3.2.3.
(13) For |𝑁𝐸𝑑 |⁄𝑁pl,e ≥ 0,2 and 1,6 𝑀y∗ /𝑉y∗ < 𝑒 < 2,6 𝑀y∗ /𝑉y∗ (shear-flexure), a linear interpolation
between (11) and (12) should be used.
7.3.6 Buckling restrained bracings
7.3.6.1 General
(1) 7.3.6 should be applied to frames with buckling restrained braces (BRBs) designed in accordance
with prEN 1998-1-2:2022, 11.12.
(2) The effective axial resistance at yield, 𝑁y∗, of the yielding zone of the BRB core, 𝐴core
net , should be
𝑁y∗ = 𝜔rm 𝑓y 𝐴core

net (7.82)
(3) The ultimate axial resistances in tension, 𝑁ut , and compression, 𝑁uc , of a BRB should be calculated
using Formula (7.83) or Formula (7.84), respectively.
𝑁ut = 𝛾sh 𝑁y∗ (7.83)
𝑁uc = 𝛾CT 𝛾sh 𝑁y∗ (7.84)
where 𝛾CT is the compression strength adjustment factor; it should be calculated according to
prEN 1998-1-2:2022, 11.12.3(3).
7.3.6.2 Axial displacement at yield
(1) The axial displacement at yield of a BRB should be calculated using Formula (7.85).
𝛥y = 𝑁y∗ /𝐾e (7.85)
92
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
where 𝐾e is the axial stiffness of the BRB; it should be calculated according to prEN 1998-1-2:2022,
11.12.2.
7.3.6.3 Axial displacement at ultimate
(1) The axial displacement at ultimate for a BRB should be calculated using Formula (7.86).
pl
𝛥u = 𝛥𝑦 + ∆u (7.86)
where
𝛥y is the axial deformation at the effective brace yield resistance in tension or
compression, whichever is applicable;
𝛥u
pl is the plastic deformation up to the peak axial resistance in tension or
pl
compression of a BRB, respectively; it should be calculated as 𝛥u = 13,3 𝛥y.
7.4 Timber structures
(1) 7.1(4) and 7.1(5) should not be applied for timber structures.
(2) Timber components and mechanical connections or devices characterised by a brittle failure
should be modelled as elastic elements, and ductile components and connections as non-linear
elements.
(3) For new buildings, the load-deformation relationships for dissipative timber components and the
design resistances of non-dissipative timber components should be taken from prEN 1998-1-2:2022,
13.5(12), 13.5(13) and Annex L.
93
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Annex A
(informative)
European hazard maps
A.1 Use of this annex

(1) This Informative Annex provides complementary/supplementary guidance to 5.2.1.
NOTE National choice on the application of this Informative Annex is given in the National Annex. If the
National Annex contains no information on the application of this Informative Annex, it can be used.
A.2 Scope
(1) This Informative Annex contains small-scale maps of S,475 and S,475 values as defined in 5.2.1.
NOTE 1 According to European Commission’s Mandate M/515 for the preparation of prEN 1998-1-1:2021,
namely for the purpose of cross-border harmonisation in the EU, the seismic hazard maps issued from deliverable
ESHM20 of the SERA research project (Seismology and Earthquake Engineering Research Infrastructure Alliance
for Europe), which received funding from the EU Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme in order to
provide updated information on the seismic hazard in Europe, are included in this annex.
NOTE 2 These maps are considered by CEN as an acceptable representation of the seismic hazard in Europe for
the return period of 475 years. CEN does not pass judgment on other results obtained in the context of their
development.
NOTE 3 Attention is drawn that the hazard mapped level or a higher one is associated to the return period of
475 years.
NOTE 4 These maps are given for general information only. As mentioned in NOTES to 5.2.1(3), (4) and (5), the
spectral acceleration maps to be used for design are provided by the relevant Authorities or the National Annex,
according to the definition of seismic action and other provisions given in 5.2.1.
94
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Figure A.1 — A representation of S,475 European map for rock sites, based on ESHM20
95
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Figure A.2 — A representation of S,475 European map for rock sites, based on ESHM20
96
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Annex B
(normative)
Alternative identification of site categories
B.1 Use of this normative annex

(1) This Normative Annex contains additional provisions to 5.1 for site classification.
NOTE Further guidance concerning ground investigation is given in prEN 1998-5:2021, 6.1.
B.2 Scope and field of application

(1) This Normative Annex contains a supporting information for a simplified identification of site
categories.
B.3 Simplified identification of site categories

(1) A simplified identification of site categories may be obtained from the combined use of Table B.1
and Table B.2.
NOTE Depth classes mentioned in Table B.1 are defined in Table 5.1.
(2) If site category is identified based on (1), default values in Table 5.4 should be used.
Table B.1 — Simplified description of site categories

Site
Description
category
Rock or other rock-like geological material, including very shallow layers of very
A
dense, dense or medium-dense sand, gravels, very stiff or stiff clay.
Deposits consisting prevalently of very dense sand, gravel, or very stiff clay, with
B representative values of the geotechnical parameters in the range defined in Table
B.2 for stiff ground.
Intermediate-depth deposits consisting prevalently of dense or medium-dense

C sand, gravel or stiff clay, with representative values of the geotechnical parameters
in the range defined in Table B.2 for medium ground.
Intermediate-depth deposits consisting prevalently of loose-to-medium

D cohesionless soil, or of soft-to-firm cohesive soil, with representative values of the
geotechnical parameters in the range defined in Table B.2 for soft ground.
Shallow deposits consisting of prevailing alluvium layers, underlain by rock-like

E materials as described for site category A. Representative values of the geotechnic-
cal parameters are in the range defined in Table B.2 for medium or soft ground.
Deep deposits consisting of prevailing alluvium layers, with representative values

F of the geotechnical parameters in the range defined in Table B.2 for medium or
soft ground.
97
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Table B.2 — Correspondence between ground class and geotechnical parameters

Ground class
Test Parameter medium
stiff soft
stiffness
SPT N60 (SPT, ER = 60%) [blows/30 cm] > 60 30-60 15-30
qc – sands (MPa) > 30 15-30 5-15

CPT
qc – clays (MPa) >6 3-6 1,5-3
FVT or lab tests cu (kPa) > 300 150-300 50-150
Em (MPa) 25-100 8-25 4-8
PMt Sand 2,0-5,0 1,2-2,0 0,4-1,2

plim (MPa)
Clay >1,2 0,7-1,2 0,3-0,7
B.4 Case of incomplete quantitative information for identification of site

categories
B.4.1 Missing direct measurements of vs or values available only to a limited depth
(1) If direct measurements, according to 5.1.2(8), are not available, the vs profile may be estimated
from well-established empirical correlations of vs with geotechnical parameters or field test results,
according to the provisions of prEN 1997-2:2021. Values of vs should be selected within the 16th-84th
percentile range of the dispersion band of the empirical correlations, to obtain the largest site
amplification factors from the expressions in Table 5.4.
(2) If the vs profile, obtained either according to direct measurements (5.1.2(8)) or according to (1), is
available down to a depth 10 m  zd  30 m and the top of bedrock formation has not been found, then
the approximation given by Formula (B.1) may be used.
vs,H = vs,z (B.1)
where vs,z is the equivalent shear wave velocity calculated according to Formula (5.1) by replacing H
with zd.
NOTE Formula (B.1) provides in general a lower bound estimate of vs,H, becoming more and more accurate as
zd approaches either H or 30 m.
(3) In case of strong soil profile irregularities, consisting of shallow stiff layers of several meters
thickness over softer soil deposits, Formula (B.1) should not be used and reference should be made to
5.2.2.1(5).
B.4.2 Missing quantitative information on H800
(1) In alternative to the quantitative determination of H800, the site category may be identified using
Table B.3 by jointly considering vs,H, either from direct measurements or from B.4.1, and f0, i.e. the
fundamental frequency of the soil deposit.
(2) In case site E category is obtained from Table B.3, the value of H to be used for application of
formulas in Table 5.4 may be obtained by Formula (B.2).
98
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
𝑣s,H
𝐻= 4𝑓0
(B.2)
Table B.3 — Site categorisation based on vs,H and f0

Combination of f0 (Hz) and vs,H (m/s) Site category
f0 ≥ 10 and vs,H ≥ 250 A
f0 < 10 and 400 ≤ vs,H < 800 B
vs,H /250 ≤ f0 < vs,H /120 and 250 ≤ vs,H < 400 C
vs,H /250 ≤ f0 < vs,H /120 and 150 ≤ vs,H < 250 D
vs,H /120 ≤ f0 < 10 and 150 ≤ vs,H < 400

or E
f0 ≥ 10 and 150 ≤ vs,H < 250
f0 < vs,H /250 and 150 ≤ vs,H < 400 F
(3) As an alternative to (1) and (2), intermediate depth and deep soil deposits may also be identified
from geological, geophysical or geotechnical information, including from microzonation maps.
(4) In case available information is not sufficient to discriminate between intermediate and deep soil
deposits, the amplification factors should be evaluated according to a) and b):
a) for Fα, consider intermediate depth soil deposits;
b) for Fβ, consider deep soil deposits.
NOTE This is a conservative evaluation.
99
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Annex C
(normative)
Site-specific elastic response spectra
C.1 Use of this annex

(1) This Normative Annex contains additional provisions to 5.2 for establishing a site-specific elastic
response spectrum.
C.2 Scope and field of application

(1) This Normative Annex contains criteria for setting up site-specific elastic response spectra based
on a local seismic hazard analysis.
C.3 Site-specific elastic response spectra based on a local seismic hazard analysis
(1) According to 5.2.2.1(3), the elastic response spectrum on site category A may be defined based on a
site-specific seismic hazard analysis. The shape of the site-specific spectrum may differ from the one
introduced in 5.2.2.2 for the horizontal component and in 5.2.2.3 for the vertical component.
NOTE 1 In case a probabilistic approach is followed, the site-specific elastic response spectrum is referred to as
a uniform hazard spectrum, the ordinates of which have the same return period.
NOTE 2 A uniform hazard spectrum can be obtained also on a site category other than A. In this case, site
amplification effects can be accounted for either by modification of the empirical ground motion prediction
equations, or by fully site-specific probabilistic approaches, considering the probabilistic nature of the local site
amplification effects calculated according to C.4.
(2) A site-specific response spectrum based on a local seismic hazard analysis should be developed if
the conditions in 5.1.1(5) apply, with due account of the potential near-source effects, such as the
presence of pulse-like ground motions due to forward directivity, or the directionality of ground motion
related to the fault radiation pattern. The possible fault offset on the ground surface should also be
accounted for.
C.4 Site-specific elastic response spectra based on evaluation of local seismic

wave amplification effects
(1) A site-specific elastic response spectrum may be obtained by seismic ground response analyses,
aiming at evaluating the site amplification effects on seismic wave propagation with respect to a
reference ground, hypothetically outcropping at the same site.
NOTE Site-specific ground response studies normally involve the assumption of horizontally layered soil
profiles (1D modelling).
(2) In the presence of complex geological or morphological conditions, such as steep topographic
irregularities, deep valleys and basins, vicinity of the site to the basin edge, the study should be based
on 2D or 3D models.
(3) To avoid spurious reflections from the bottom and, if relevant, lateral edges of the numerical
model, appropriate boundary conditions should be adopted, for the seismic waves not to be artificially
reflected in the physical domain.
100
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(4) The reference ground should normally be of site category A. However, if the depth of sediments to
bedrock is not known, the reference ground may coincide with the deeper ground class encountered in
the soil profile, considered to be hypothetically outcropping.
(5) Input motions for seismic ground response analyses should be selected and scaled according to
criteria in Annex D, considering the elastic response spectrum for the outcropping reference ground
conditions addressed in (4).
(6) The site-specific elastic response spectrum may be obtained by repeating the site response
analysis for different input motions. The resulting 5%-damped response spectrum at the ground
surface should then be obtained by averaging results for all the input motions.
(7) Possible effects of the non-linear response of soils may be accounted for, according to the relevant
provisions of prEN 1998-5:2021, 7.5.2. For this purpose, suitable curves representing the variability of
the shear modulus and of the soil damping ratio with the amplitude of shear strain should be selected
and properly justified.
NOTE Numerical simulations of seismic wave propagation in the ground normally consider a linear visco-
elastic soil behaviour at small strains.
C.5 Limitations on site-specific spectral values

(1) In case the conditions stated in C.3(2) apply, the site-specific elastic response spectrum should not
be lower than the horizontal elastic response spectrum defined in 5.2.2.2 for the corresponding return
period and for the same vs,H and site category.
(2) For all cases other than those addressed in (1), the site-specific elastic response spectrum should
not be lower than 75% of the horizontal elastic response spectrum obtained from 5.2.2.2, for the same
vs,H and site category and for the corresponding return period, at least in the period ranges defined in
D.3(2).
(3) If relevant, the same limitations stated in (1) and (2) should also be applied to the vertical elastic
response spectra.
101
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Annex D
(normative)
Criteria for selection and scaling of input motions
D.1 Use of this annex

(1) This Normative Annex contains additional provisions to 5.2.3 for selecting input motions.
D.2 Scope and field of application

(1) This Normative Annex contains criteria for selection of input accelerograms for response-history
analyses.
NOTE The minimum number of accelerograms to be used is specified in 6.6.
D.3 Recorded accelerograms

(1) Recorded accelerograms, available from qualified strong motion databases, should be the
preferred representation of the seismic action for analyses in the time domain.
(2) The spectral accelerations of the selected accelerograms should approach the elastic response
spectrum defined in 5.2.2.2, at least in the following period ranges:
− for structural analyses: from 0,2 T1 to 1,5 T1, where T1 is the fundamental period of the structure
in the direction in which the accelerogram is applied;
− for site-specific seismic soil amplification analyses and for geotechnical analyses: from TA to T0,
where T0 = 1/f0 is the fundamental period of vibration of the soil deposit. If T0 is unknown, the
period range should be from TA to 2 s.
(3) Alternatively to (2), the target spectrum may correspond to the uniform hazard spectrum, if this is
available from a site-specific probabilistic seismic hazard analysis, as defined in Annex C.
(4) Alternatively to (2), a conditional spectrum may be used as a target, where the spectral
acceleration at T1 is fixed and the other spectral ordinates are correlated to that value. In this case, the
variability of conditional spectra should be properly accounted for.
NOTE Neither the elastic response spectrum nor the uniform hazard spectrum provides a realistic correlation
of the spectral accelerations for periods around T1, making them in general more conservative than the
conditional spectrum.
(5) The selection of records should account as far as possible for the regional tectonic environment,
earthquake magnitude, source-to-site distance, and local conditions of the recording site, relevant for
the return period of the seismic actions of interest.
NOTE Disaggregation of seismic hazard can provide the required information or reference can be made to
Table 5.6.
(6) The recorded accelerograms may be scaled to improve their compatibility to the target spectrum,
according to one of the methods a) or b):
a) Constant-amplitude scaling, in which the record is scaled in amplitude by a constant factor;
b) Spectral-matching scaling, in which modifications are made in the frequency or wavelet domain,
until the response spectrum of the modified record approaches the target.
102
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(7) In the context of geotechnical applications, or in the case of highly non-linear structural response,
the scaling factor should not be larger than 2 nor smaller than 0,5 and the scaled accelerogram should
not present a non-physical drift when integrated to velocity and displacement.
(8) Compatibility of the suite of selected and scaled accelerograms may be considered as satisfied if
conditions a) and b) apply concurrently:
a) in the range defined in (2), the ratio to the target spectrum of the average 5%-damped response
spectrum of the set falls within the band from 0,75 to 1,3 and has an average value larger than
0,95;
b) in the same range, the 5%-damped response spectrum of each accelerogram of the suite does
not fall below 50% of the target spectrum.
(9) The suite of selected accelerograms should not simultaneously contain two components of the
same record, and no more than two records of the same earthquake.
(10) If near-source conditions are considered (see 5.1.1(5)), a) to c) should be applied:
a) at least 30% of the accelerograms should present pulse-like features, either related to
directivity or to the seismic source mechanism;
b) this number of pulse-like accelerograms may be changed if a site-specific probabilistic seismic
hazard analysis is available, providing alternative probability of occurrence of pulse-like ground
motions;
c) alternatively to recorded accelerograms, simulated accelerograms (see D.5) may be used.
D.4 Multiple input motions using recorded accelerograms

(1) If multiple input motions are required, for example in the case of a 3D structural model, the two
horizontal components of the same record should be applied, with modifications of the record allowed
in D.3(6).
(2) Compatibility of the horizontal components to the target spectrum should be verified based on the
geometric mean of the horizontal spectral accelerations of records, according to D.3(8).
(3) When the vertical input motion is needed, the vertical component of the same record of the two
horizontal components should be used. The scaling factor on the vertical component should be selected
so that its 5%-damped response spectrum is not below 90% of the target vertical spectrum in the
period range between 0,2 Tv and 1,5 Tv, where Tv is the longest period where the modal response to the
vertical component prevails over the response to the horizontal components.
NOTE The modal response in the vertical direction can be regarded as prevailing over the modal response in
the horizontal direction in case the product of the modal mass in the vertical direction times the spectral
acceleration in the vertical direction is larger than the similar product in the horizontal direction.
(4) In the case of spectral-matching scaling, the horizontal and vertical components of the same record
should be scaled to the corresponding target spectrum, with no phase change.
(5) For structural analyses, compatibility to the target spectrum should be verified for the two
principal directions of the structure.
(6) The orientation of the horizontal components with respect to the principal directions of the
structure may be arbitrarily selected.
(7) The three scaled components should act simultaneously and should be synchronized in order to
have the same absolute time origin.
103
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
D.5 Simulated accelerograms

(1) Simulated accelerograms, i.e. accelerograms generated through a physical simulation of seismic
source mechanisms and travel path, may be used, provided that the samples are adequately qualified
with regards to the seismogenic features of the sources, to the soil conditions appropriate to the site,
and to the frequency range of interest for the specific applications.
NOTE Simulated accelerograms are expected to be used when availability of recorded accelerograms does not
cover the variety of source mechanisms and source-to-site directivity conditions, such as in the case of seismic
analyses in near-source (see 5.1.1(5)).
(2) Criteria of compatibility to the target spectrum defined in D.3(8) should be satisfied also when
using simulated accelerograms, at least for T shorter than 1 s. Exceptions for T longer than 1 s should be
adequately justified in relation to the seismic source mechanisms considered and the location of the site
with respect to the source.
D.6 Artificial accelerograms

(1) Artificial accelerograms may be generated by purely stochastic approaches, to match the target
elastic response spectrum for the considered damping ratio.
(2) Use of artificial accelerograms should be limited to the applications where the number of loading
cycles is of minor relevance.
NOTE Examples of such applications are linear analyses or analyses with moderate non-linear response,
typically for damage limitation requirements, or in case of low or very low seismic action classes.
(3) In the absence of more precise information, the duration of the accelerogram strong part should be
consistent with the values specified in Table 5.6.
(4) The suite of artificial accelerograms to be used should satisfy the compatibility criteria to the target
spectrum specified in D.3(8).
104
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Annex E
(normative)
Determination of target displacement and limit-state spectral

acceleration by using non-linear response-history analyses of an
equivalent SDOF model
E.1 Use of this annex

(1) This Normative Annex contains additional provisions to 6.5.4 for selecting a target displacement
and a limit-state spectral acceleration.
E.2 Scope and field of application

(1) This Annex provides a procedure for a) to c):
a) the definition of an equivalent SDOF model based on a multi-linear force-displacement
relationship (see E.3);
b) the estimation of the target displacement by using non-linear response-history analyses of an
equivalent SDOF model (see E.4);
c) the estimation of the limit-state spectral acceleration by using non-linear response-history
analyses of an equivalent SDOF model (see E.5).
(2) The limit-state spectral acceleration Se,LS should be the median value of spectral acceleration at the
fundamental vibration period of the structure which causes a designated limit state.
NOTE The limit-state spectral acceleration can be understood as the measure of the resistance of the structure
if the resistance is expressed through the level of spectral acceleration. The limit-state spectral acceleration is
required for the reliability-based verification format (Annex F).
E.3 Definition of a multi-linear equivalent SDOF model

(1) The force-displacement relationship 𝐹 ∗ (𝑑∗ ) of the equivalent SDOF model should be determined
from the capacity curve of the MDOF model using Formulas (6.24) and (6.25).
(2) A multi-linear idealisation of 𝐹 ∗ (𝑑∗ ) should be used for the purpose of determining the target
displacement (E.4) or limit-state spectral acceleration (E.5) by non-linear response-history analyses.
(3) For the application of E.3, the idealised 𝐹 ∗ (𝑑∗ ) relationship should be at least trilinear (Figure
E.1(a)).
105
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Figure E.1 — Determination of the multi-linear idealisation of the capacity curve: (a) trilinear;
(b) and (c) multi-linear
(4) The basis of the multi-linear idealisation of 𝐹 ∗ (𝑑∗ ) should be the bilinear idealisation in 6.5.3. The
negative post-capping stiffness (stiffness of the branch starting at point B) should be determined so that
the sum of the squares of the differences between 𝐹 ∗ (𝑑∗ ) and its idealisation after point B is minimised.
(5) If the effect of strength degradation is not included in the capacity curve, the negative post-capping
stiffness may be assumed equal in absolute value to the stiffness at zero-deformation of the SDOF
model.
(6) If the ratio between residual and peak strength 𝐹3 /𝐹m > 0,5 and the ratio 𝑑4 /𝑑m > 1,3, a more
than trilinear idealisation of 𝐹 ∗ (𝑑∗ ) may be used for specific types of structural systems, which are
composed of structural systems or structural sub-assemblages with varying force-deformation curves.
Branches after point B should be determined so that the sum of the squares of the differences between
𝐹 ∗ (𝑑∗ ) and its idealisation after point B is minimised.
NOTE Examples of concerned structures are frames with masonry infills, braced frames, dual structures,
Figure E.1(b), or structures that after closing a gap have a stiffening behaviour, like bridges moving in the
longitudinal direction towards a flexible abutment and pushing against the soil after closing a gap, Figure E.1(c).
(7) The damping coefficient 𝑐 may be determined according to formula (E.1)
𝑐 = 2𝜉√𝑘 ∗ 𝑚∗ (E.1)
where
𝑘∗ is the equivalent SDOF initial stiffness given in 6.5.3(3);
𝑚∗ is the equivalent SDOF mass given by Formula (6.22).
(8) The hysteretic behaviour of the SDOF model should reflect the response of the entire structure and
not only the behaviour of a single structural element (e.g. beam, column, wall, etc.). The criterion for its
selection should be the principle of equal energy dissipation between the structure and the equivalent
SDOF.
(9) The cyclic strength deterioration should be neglected in the hysteretic behaviour of the SDOF
model since this effect is implicitly taken into account in the non-linear model of the structure
(6.2.3(4)).
(10) (8) and (9) may be considered satisfied if a peak-oriented hysteretic model with degrading
unloading stiffness is adopted.
NOTE More detailed description of the hysteretic models for specific types of structures or types of structural
systems can be found in the relevant parts of EN 1998.
106
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
E.4 Determination of the target displacement through non-linear response-

history analyses
(1) Accelerograms should be selected according to the procedure given in Annex D, in conformity with
the limit state under consideration.
(2) The number of accelerograms 𝑁a for non-linear response-history analyses of an equivalent SDOF
model should not be less than 15.
∗
(3) The peak displacement of the equivalent SDOF model for the i-th accelerogram 𝑑t,i should be
calculated as the maximum of the absolute values of the displacement time-history. The target
displacement of the SDOF model 𝑑t∗ should be defined as the median value of peak displacements of all
accelerograms. It may be calculated using Formula (E.2).
1𝑁a ∗
𝑑t∗ = exp (𝑁 ∑𝑖=1 𝑙𝑛(𝑑t,i )) (E.2)
a
E.5 Determination of the limit-state spectral acceleration through non-linear

response-history analyses
(1) For the determination of the limit-state spectral acceleration, E.4(1) and (2) should be applied.
(2) The limit-state spectral acceleration, as defined in E.2(2), corresponding to the i-th accelerogram
𝑆e,LS,i may be obtained by incremental dynamic analysis.
NOTE Incremental dynamic analysis is a method where a response-history analysis of the system is repeated
for increasing scaling factors of the same accelerogram until a predetermined condition is attained. Within this
context, incremental dynamic analysis is continued until the limit state under consideration is attained.
(3) The limit-state spectral acceleration should be calculated as the median of the values for all
accelerograms. It may be calculated using Formula (E.3).
1
𝑆e,LS = exp ( ∑𝑁a 𝑙𝑛(𝑆e,LS,i )) (E.3)
𝑁a 𝑖=1
(4) If the target spectrum for the selection of accelerograms corresponds to the horizontal elastic
spectrum defined in 5.2.2.2(1), the limit-state spectral acceleration calculated by (E.3) should be
multiplied by a factor accounting for the difference in spectral shape between uniform-hazard and
conditional spectra (D.1(4)), taken as equal to 1,0 for 𝑇 = 0 and 1,3 for 𝑇 ≥ 𝑇𝐶 (linear interpolation may
be used in between).
NOTE If the target spectrum for the selection of accelerograms corresponds to a uniform hazard spectrum, e.g.
the spectrum defined in 5.2.2.2(1), the resulting limit-state spectral acceleration 𝑆𝑒,𝐿𝑆 can be underestimated. If
the target spectrum is based on the conditional spectrum approach, then 𝑆𝑒,𝐿𝑆 is not underestimated and no
amplification is needed.
107
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Annex F
(informative)
Simplified reliability-based verification format
F.1 Use of this annex

(1) This Informative Annex provides complementary/supplementary guidance to 4.1.
NOTE National choice on the application of this Informative Annex is given in the National Annex. If the
National Annex contains no information on the application of this Informative Annex, it can be used.
F.2 Scope
(1) This Informative Annex may be used for a simplified verification of the performance of the
structure in probabilistic terms.
(2) This Informative Annex may be applied to design situations where uncertainties are outside the
ranges that are covered by the partial factor design format.
NOTE Such situations are described in prEN 1990:2020, Annex C, C.2.
F.3 Reliability-based verification

(1) The performance of a structure, for a given consequence class and for a limit state of interest, may
be considered as acceptable if the inequality given by Formula (F.1) is satisfied.
𝑃LS ≤ 𝑃t,LS,CC (F.1)
where
PLS is the annual probability of exceedance of a designated limit state, which may be
calculated according to (2);
Pt,LS,CC is the target annual probability of exceedance of a designated limit state for a
given consequence class.
NOTE The basis for calculation of the target probability of exceedance of a limit state for a given consequence
class of a structure, Pt,LS,CC, can be the target probability of exceedance of the NC limit state. For structures of
consequence class CC2, this target probability is Pt,NC,CC2 = 210-4, unless the relevant Authority or the National
Annex gives a different value.
(2) The annual probability of exceedance of a designated limit state may be calculated using
Formula (F.2).
∞ d𝐻(𝑆e )
𝑃LS = ∫0 𝑃(𝐿𝑆ǀ𝑆e ) | d𝑆e
| d𝑆e (F.2)
where
Se is the intensity measure of the ground motion in the form of a spectral
acceleration (e.g. the PGA or the spectral acceleration at the fundamental period of
the structure);
𝑃(𝐿𝑆ǀ𝑆e ) is the probability that the ground motion with intensity equal to Se will cause
108
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
exceedance of the limit state LS;

H(Se) is the seismic hazard function, i.e. the median of annual frequency of exceedance
of Se.
NOTE In this Informative Annex, the annual frequency of exceedance and the annual probability of
exceedance are deemed to be small enough to be regarded as equal.
(3) 𝑃(𝐿𝑆ǀ𝑆e ) may be assumed to be log-normally distributed, as given by Formula (F.3).
𝑙𝑛(𝑆e )−𝑙𝑛(𝑆e,LS )
𝑃(𝐿𝑆ǀ𝑆e ) = 𝛷 ( 𝛽Se,LS
) (F.3)
where
𝛷 is the cumulative distribution function of the standardised Normal distribution;
Se,LS is the median value of spectral accelerations which causes the designated limit
state;
𝛽Se,LS is the logarithmic standard deviation of spectral accelerations which causes the
designated LS.
NOTE Se,LS is the main parameter that the designer controls to fulfil the condition given by Formula (F1). In
the absence of more detailed evaluations, a displacement-based approach (6.5, Annex E) can be used for the
estimation of Se,LS.
(4) If the hazard function is not available for the entire interval of spectral acceleration, H(Se) may be
assumed linear in the logarithmic domain, as given by Formula (F.4). In this case 𝑃LS may be calculated
according to Formula (F.5).
𝑘
1 𝑆
𝐻(𝑆e,LS ) = 𝑇ref
( 𝑆e,ref ) (F.4)
e,LS
𝑃LS = 𝐻(𝑆e,LS )𝑒𝑥𝑝(0,5𝑘 2 𝛽𝑆2e,LS ) (F.5)
where
H(Se,LS) is the median of annual frequency of exceedance of Se,LS;
Se,ref is the value of Se corresponding to the reference return period 𝑇ref of seismic
action for SD limit state, such as specified in 5.2.2.2(1);
k is the slope of the seismic hazard curve for Se,ref in the logarithmic domain;
Se,LS is the logarithmic standard deviation of the limit-state spectral acceleration.
NOTE For use of Formula (F.5), k values can be mapped in the National Annex or by the relevant Authorities.
(5) If not otherwise documented, values of Se,LS may be obtained from Figure F.1 as a function of T1,
depending on the considered limit state.
109
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Figure F.1 — Se,LS as a function of the fundamental period of the structure T1
110
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Annex G
(normative)
Design of fastenings to concrete in the seismic design situation
G.1 Use of this annex

(1) This Normative Annex contains additional provisions for the design of post-installed fasteners and
cast-in headed fasteners used to transmit seismic actions by means of tension, shear, or a combination
of tension and shear forces between connected structural members or between ancillary elements and
structural members.
NOTE 1 The definition of fastenings and fasteners is given in EN 1992-4.
NOTE 2 Specific rules for precast concrete structures are covered in prEN 1998-1-2:2022, 10.14.
(2) This Normative Annex should be used in complement to EN 1992-4.
NOTE This Normative Annex supersedes requirements related to the seismic design situation in EN 1992-4.
(3) This Normative Annex should be used, for a given type of structure, in complement to the relevant
part of EN 1998.
G.2 Scope and field of application

(1) This Normative Annex should be used for the types of connections given in a) and b):
a) Type 'A' – Connections between primary and/or secondary seismic members;
b) Type 'B' – Connections of ancillary elements and of equipment to primary and/or secondary
seismic members.
NOTE Fastenings in stand-off installation or with a grout layer ≥ 0,5 df, where df is the fastener nominal
diameter, as well as fasteners qualified only for redundant ancillary systems, as defined in EN 1992-4, are not
covered.
(2) If it cannot be avoided to locate fasteners in a critical region, fasteners should not be post-installed
and should be detailed so that the anchor forces are transferred directly by means of mechanical or
welded splices to anchor reinforcement designed to transmit the anchor force into the body of the
member beyond the critical region. The design resistance of those mechanical or welded splices should
not be smaller than 1,25 times the yield strength of the fastener and of the bar they connect.
NOTE The anchorage of post-installed fastener in critical regions is not covered in EN 1998 and is
discouraged, given the state of knowledge.
(3) If, in the seismic design situation, the design tension effect and the design shear effect due to the
seismic action alone, applied to a single fastener or a group of fasteners, are both not greater than 20 %
of the total corresponding design effect due to the combination of actions, G.5 should be applied
considering G.3.1(1) and (8), G.3.2 and G.4(1) to (4), but the other requirements may be neglected.
111
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
G.3 Basis of design

G.3.1 General
(1) It should be verified that there exists a reliable mechanism of transmission of forces from
anchoring to the main reinforcement, according to EN 1992-4:2018, Annex A, or using a strut and tie
model.
NOTE The verification of fastenings according to the present Normative Annex is local. The main
reinforcement is determined to balance internal forces and moments at the member scale; (1) aims to ensure
balance at the intermediate scale, through an acceptable mechanism which can entail additional reinforcement in
certain cases. This is similar to suspending the shear force from a load applied at the lower face of a beam (see
prEN 1992-1-1:2021, 12.3.4).
(2) The design of fastenings should satisfy either option OP1, or OP2, or OP3, as defined in a) to c), in
the seismic design situation:
a) OP1 – Design assuming elastic behaviour of the structure and fastening;
b) OP2 – Design with action effects in the fastenings allowing the connected elements to exploit
their maximum strength according to capacity design rules given in G.4(6);
c) OP3 – Design with requirements on the ductility of the fasteners.
(3) In design to OP1 or OP2, fasteners should not be accounted for energy dissipation in the global
structural analysis or in the analysis of ancillary elements.
(4) In designing connections type A to OP1, concrete cone, concrete splitting and concrete blow-out
failures should not govern.
(5) In design to OP3, fasteners may be accounted for energy dissipation in the global structural
analysis or in the analysis of ancillary elements; in that case, a non-linear response-history analysis
should be performed, based on data provided by cyclic tests.
NOTE 1 OP3 can lead to large non-recoverable displacements of the fastener.
NOTE 2 This procedure accounts for fasteners response in unloading/reloading cycles, also considering, at each
cycle, the effects of the maximum load achieved during previous cycles.
NOTE 3 prCEN/TS 1998-1-101 gives a loading protocol and acceptance criteria for such tests.
(6) In design to OP3, the tension capacity of the steel components of the fastening should be smaller
than the tension capacity related to concrete failure modes, as detailed in G.4 and G.5.
(7) In design to OP3, the resistance to shear action effects on the fastening should be provided by
additional means or by additional fasteners all designed to one of the design options OP1 or OP2. In
case of OP2 design of additional fasteners, no plastic hinge in the base plate should be encountered.
NOTE An additional means in (7) can be, for instance, a shear lug welded under a base plate.
(8) Except when (9) can be applied, concrete in the region of the fastening should be assumed cracked
when calculating design resistances.
NOTE 1 Table G.1 assumes that concrete is cracked.
NOTE 2 The robustness of the fastening can be increased by detailing supplementary reinforcement according
to EN 1992-4:2018, 7.2.1.2, 7.2.2.2 or 7.2.1.7(2) such that concrete cone, concrete edge, or concrete splitting,
respectively, do not govern.
(9) Concrete may be assumed uncracked if the condition given by EN 1992-4:2018, Formula (4.4),
with resistances calculated according to G.5, is verified in the seismic design situation.
(10) If a connection is assumed rigid in the analysis of a structure, the displacement of the fastening
should be consistent with that assumption.
112
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
NOTE Fastener displacement limits for seismic applications at both damage limit state and ultimate limit state
are provided in the relevant European Technical Product Specification for fasteners with seismic performance
category C2.
(11) Loosening of the nuts or screws should be prevented.
G.3.2 Seismic performance category for post-installed fasteners
(1) Fasteners should satisfy performance requirements in Table G.1. Suitability of individual fasteners
to such requirements should be stated in the relevant European Technical Product Specification or, for
whole components and in case of specific design situations, determined by testing in cyclic conditions.
NOTE 1 prCEN/TS 1998-1-101 gives a loading protocol and acceptance criteria for such tests.
NOTE 2 The requirements in Table G.1 depend on the seismic action class relevant for the design of the
structure and of the ductility class, DC, chosen by the designer.
NOTE 3 Fasteners qualified according to EAD 330232-01-0601 or to EAD 330499-01-0601 for Seismic
Performance Category C1 satisfy the conditions in Table G.1 for post-installed fasteners in cases of low seismic
action class, ductility class DC1 and design options OP1 or OP2.
NOTE R Fasteners qualified according to EAD 330232-01-0601 or to EAD 330499-01-0601 for Seismic
Performance Category C2 satisfy the conditions in Table G.1 for post-installed fasteners in all combinations of
seismic action class, ductility class and design options other than the one in NOTE 1 above.
Table G.1 — Performance requirements

DC1 DC2 and DC3
Seismic action
Class Design Performance Design Performance
option requirements option requirements
Condition CL ‘a’
OP1 or OP2 Condition CL ‘a’ * OP1 or OP2
Condition CC ‘a’
Low
Condition CL ‘b’
OP3 Condition CL ‘b’ ** OP3
Condition CC ‘a’
Condition CL ‘a’ Condition CL ‘a’

Moderate or high OP2 OP2
Condition CC ‘a’ *** Condition CC ‘a’
(connection Type
A) Condition CL ‘b’ Condition CL ‘b’
OP3 OP3
Condition CC ‘a’ Condition CC ‘a’
Condition CL ‘a’ Condition CL ‘a’

Moderate or high OP2 OP2
Condition CC ‘b’ **** Condition CC ‘b’
(connection Type
B) Condition CL ‘b’ Condition CL ‘b’
OP3 OP3
Condition CC ‘b’ Condition CC ‘b’
* Condition CL ‘a’: Functioning under pulsating tension and alternate shear loading (up to R0k,eq/γsh).
** Condition CL ‘b’: Functioning under pulsating tension and alternate shear loading (for action effects
involving fastener yielding).
*** Condition CC ‘a’: Functioning under cycling cracking (for action effects not involving reinforcement
113
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
yielding).
**** Condition CC ‘b’: Functioning under cycling cracking (for action effects involving reinforcement
yielding).
G.3.3 Design criteria
(1) In the design of fastenings, beneficial effects of friction due to gravity should be neglected.
(2) For the calculation of action effects on fastenings in structural members, the vertical component of
the seismic action should be considered as specified in the relevant part of EN 1998.
NOTE For buildings, it is given in prEN 1998-1-2:2022, 4.2(2) and 7.
(3) The design value of the tension and shear components of action effects on a fastener should result
from the combination of components of the seismic action given in 6.4.4 or 6.5.4(6) as appropriate for
Type A connections or in the relevant part of EN 1998 for Type B connections.
NOTE For buildings, prEN 1998-1-2:2022, 7.2, gives the rules for Type B connections.
(4) (3) may be satisfied by considering that the maximum values of the tension and shear components
of action effects on a fastener are acting simultaneously.
(5) For the design of fasteners to OP2, the resistance of the fastening should be greater than the
maximum action effect that can be transmitted to the fastening calculated with reference to one of the
hypothesis a) to c):
a) a ductile yield mechanism develops in the attached steel component (see Figure G.1(a));
b) a ductile yield mechanism forms in the steel base plate (see Figure G.1(b));
c) the limit is the capacity of a non-yielding attached component or structural member (see Figure
G.1(c)).
Figure G.1 — Seismic design by protection of the fastening: a) yielding in the attached element;
b) yielding in the base plate; c) capacity of attached element
(6) In using a) or b) in (5), the resistance of the plastic mechanism should be calculated taking into
account strain hardening and material overstrength.
NOTE 1 Strain hardening and material overstrength factors are given in prEN 1998-1-2:2022, 11, 10.14 and 15
for steel, precast concrete and aluminium attachments, respectively.
NOTE 2 When b) is used, the redistribution of loads to the individual fasteners of a group, the redistribution of
the loads in the structure and the low cycle fatigue behaviour of the fixture also play a role.
(7) Fasteners designed to OP3 should satisfy (8) to (13) and should satisfy the performance
requirements given in G.3.2 for the relevant seismic action class and ductility class.
NOTE (8) to (13) do not apply to OP1 and OP2.
114
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(8) Fastenings with one fastener in tension should satisfy Formula (G.1).
𝑅k,conc,eq
𝑅k,s,eq ≤ 0,7 𝛾inst
(G.1)
where
Rk,s,eq is the minimum characteristic seismic resistance for steel failure of the fastener
calculated as given by Formula (G.4), where it is replaced by Rk,eq;
Rk,conc,eq is the minimum characteristic seismic resistance for all concrete related failure
modes (concrete cone, pull-out (headed and post-installed mechanical fasteners),
combined pull-out and concrete (bonded fasteners), concrete blow-out and
concrete splitting failure) calculated as given by Formula (G.4), where it is
replaced by Rk,eq;
inst is the factor accounting for the sensitivity to installation according to the relevant
European Technical Product Specification.
(9) Groups of fasteners with two and more tensioned fasteners should satisfy the condition given by
Formula (G.2).
𝑅k,s,eq 𝑅k,conc,eq
≤ 0,7 g (G.2)
𝐸dh 𝐸d 𝛾inst
where
Rk,conc,eq is the minimum characteristic seismic resistance for concrete cone, combined
pull-out and concrete (only bonded fasteners), concrete blow-out and concrete
splitting failure for the fastener group, calculated according to Formula (G.4),
where it is replaced by Rk,eq;
𝐸dh is the design tension effect on the most loaded fastener in the group;
g
𝐸d is the design tension effect on all the tensioned fasteners in the group.
(10) In a group of headed or post-installed mechanical fasteners with two or more fasteners in tension,
the most loaded fastener should satisfy Formula (G.1), with Rk,conc,eq equal to the seismic pull-out
resistance of one fastener or, alternatively, if the fastenings make use of supplementary reinforcement
as defined in EN 1992-4, the resistance of the supplementary reinforcement being the minimum
between the resistances associated to steel or anchorage reinforcement failure.
(11) Fasteners which transmit tensile forces should be ductile and should have a stretch length (Figure
G.2(a) or (b)) not smaller than 8df, unless otherwise determined by analysis.
NOTE 1 In some cases, the analysis can demonstrate that a lower length suffices.
NOTE 2 Specific solutions to prevent cumulating unrecoverable displacements at load reversal can be
considered.
(12) A fastener may be considered ductile if all conditions a) to c) are satisfied:
a) the nominal ultimate strength of its resisting section is not greater than fuk = 800 MPa;
b) the ratio of nominal yield strength to nominal ultimate strength fyk/fuk is not greater than 0,8;
c) the elongation at rupture measured over a length equal to 5dfr, where dfr is the diameter of the
fastener smallest resisting section, is not smaller than 12 %.
NOTE The fastener smallest resisting section is for instance a threaded section.
115
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
(13) The characteristic steel strength Nuk of the reduced section of a fastener over a length smaller than
8dfr should be greater than 1,3 times the characteristic yield strength Nyk of the unreduced section.
Key
1 stretch length
NOTE See G.5 for the definition of parameters in c).
Figure G.2 — Seismic design by yielding of a ductile fastener: a) illustration of stretch

length – anchor chair; b) illustration of stretch length – sleeve or debonded
length; c) fastening displacements and rotations
G.4 Resistance
NOTE Notations in G.4, like Rk,eq , αgap, R0k,eq, etc., are notations from EN 1992-4.
(1) The seismic design resistance of a fastening should be taken as given by Formula (G.3).
𝑅k,eq
𝑅d,eq = 𝛾 (G.3)
M,st 𝛾eq
where
γM,st is the partial factor for resistance for permanent and transient design situations
(see EN 1992-4:2018, Table 4.1);
eq is a partial factor to account for additional reliability in the seismic situation and
depends on the failure mode considered.
NOTE The value of eq is 1,1 for the concrete related failure modes as given in EN 1992-4:2018, Table 4.1, and
1,0 for the other modes, unless the National Annex gives different values for use in a country.
(2) The effect of the annular gap around fasteners on the resistance of the fastening should be
calculated as given in G.5(3).
(3) The characteristic seismic resistance Rk,eq of a fastening should be taken as given by Formula (G.4).
𝑅k,eq = 𝛼gap 𝛼eq 𝑅 0 k,eq (G.4)
where
αgap is the reduction factor to account for inertia effects due to an annular gap between
fastener and fixture in case of shear loading; in absence of information in the
relevant European Technical Product Specification, the following values should be
116
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
used:
i) 1,0 in case of no hole clearance between fastener and fixture;
ii) 0,5 with hole clearance according to EN 1992-4:2018, Table 6.1.
eq is the factor to take into account the influence of seismic actions and associated
cracking on concrete cone resistance and bond strength of supplementary
reinforcement, and resistance of groups due to uneven load transfer to the
individual fasteners in a group, see Table G.2;
𝑅 0 k,eq is the basic characteristic seismic resistance for a given failure mode determined
as given in i) to iii):
i) for steel and pull-out failure under tension load and steel failure
under shear load, 𝑅 0 k,eq should be taken from the relevant European
Technical Product Specification (i.e. NRk,s,eq, NRk,p,eq, VRk,s,eq);
ii) for combined pull-out and concrete failure in case of post-installed
bonded fasteners, R0k,eq should be determined according to EN 1992-
4:2018, 7.2.1.6, (i.e. NRk,p), however, using the characteristic bond
resistance (τRk,eq) given in the relevant European Technical Product
Specification;
iii) for all other failure modes, 𝑅 0 k,eq should be determined as for the
persistent and transient design situation according to EN 1992-
4:2018, 7 (i.e. for tension load: NRk,c, NRk,sp, NRk,cp, NRk,re, NRk,a = γc NRd,a;
and for shear load: VRk,c, VRk,cp, NRk,re, NRk,a = γc NRd,a).
NOTE Due to hammer effect, the action effects on fasteners under shear loading increase if there is an annular
gap. The factor gap accounts for this increase in action effects.
Table G.2 — Reduction factor eq

Single Fastener
Loading Failure mode
fastener* group
Steel failure 1,0 1,0
Concrete cone failure:

- headed fastener and undercut fasteners with k1-factor
1,0 0,85
same as headed fastener
- all other fasteners 0,85 0,75
Pull-out failure 1,0 0,85

Tension
Combined pull-out and concrete failure (bonded fastener) 1,0 0,85
Concrete splitting failure 1,0 0,85
Concrete blow-out failure 1,0 0,85
Steel failure of reinforcement 1,0 1,0
Anchorage failure of reinforcement 0,85 0,75
Shear Steel failure 1,0 0,85
117
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Concrete pry-out failure

- Headed fastener and undercut fasteners with k1-factor
1,0 0,85
same as headed fastener
- all other fasteners 0,85 0,75
Concrete edge failure 1,0 0,85
Steel failure of reinforcement 1,0 1,0
Anchorage failure of reinforcement 0,85 0,75
* This also applies where only one fastener in a group is subjected to tension load
(4) The verifications for interaction between tension and shear forces should be carried out according
to EN 1992-4:2018, 7.2.3.1 and 7.2.3.2, and should be made both for steel failure and for failure modes
other than steel failure. Formula (G.5) should be satisfied, considering (5).
𝑁Ed,eq 𝑉Ed,eq
+ ≤ 1,0 (G.5)
𝑁Rd,i,eq 𝑉Rd,i,eq
where NEd, VEd are the design action effects in the seismic design situation for the corresponding failure
modes.
(5) Tension and shear forces in Formula (G.5) should be combined as given in a) and b):
a) in case of steel failure: NRd,s,eq and VRd,s,eq for NRd,i,eq and VRd,i,eq, respectively;
b) in case of failure modes other than steel failure: largest ratios for NEd/NRd,i,eq and VEd/VRd,i,eq.
G.5 Displacement of fasteners

(1) The displacement of a fastener under tension and shear loads at damage limitation should not be
greater than N,req(DL) and V,req(DL) imposed by functionality and assumptions on support conditions (see
6.7.3).
NOTE N,req(DL) and V,req(DL) are defined with respect to the requirements of each specific application. For
instance, the assumption of a fixed support in the analysis defines the limiting displacement in the fastener
coherent with the assessed structural behaviour. In most cases, the limit of displacement associated to a rigid
support is of the order of 3 mm. This limit can be agreed for a specific project by the relevant parties.
(2) If deformations (displacements or rotations) are relevant for the design of the connection, it should
be demonstrated that these deformations can be accommodated by the fasteners.
NOTE Examples of concerned elements are secondary seismic members or façade elements.
(3) The rotation of the connection θp (see Figure G.2(c)) should be taken as given by Formula (G.6):
𝛿N,eq
𝜃p = 𝑠max
(G.6)
where
N,eq is the displacement of the fastener in the seismic design situation;

smax is the distance between the outermost row of fasteners and the opposite edge of
the base plate.
(4) If the fastener displacements N,eq(DL) under tension loading and/or V,eq(DL) under shear loading
provided in the relevant European Technical Product Specification are greater than the corresponding
118
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
required values N,req(DL) and/or V,req(DL), the reduced design resistance may be calculated as given by
Formulas (G.7) and (G.8).
𝛿N,req(DL)
𝑁Rd,eq,red = 𝑁Rd,eq (G.7)
𝛿N,eq(DL)
𝛿V,req(DL)
𝑉Rd,eq,red = 𝑉Rd,eq 𝛿V,eq(DL)
(G.8)
(5) If fastenings and attached elements are intended to be operational after an earthquake, the
corresponding displacements should be taken into account.
119
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Annex M
(normative)
Material or product properties in EN 1998-1-1
M.1 Use of this annex

(1) This Normative Annex contains additional provisions to EN 1998-1-1.
M.2 Scope and field of application

(1) This Normative Annex covers guidance for material and product specifications used in
EN 1998-1-1.
(2) Table M.1 gives the list of properties of structural members and antiseismic devices used in
EN 1998-1-1 and the related normative references.
NOTE This list does not include properties already defined in other Eurocodes.
Table M.1 — List of properties used in EN 1998-1-1 and related normative references
Symbol in
Referred Symbol in the
Property EN 1998-1-
standard referred standard
1
Upper- and lower-bound design properties (Upper/Lower)

for each antiseismic device:
• Load bearing capacity Nbc,l Nbc,u
• Stiffness EN 15129 KR,l KR,u General
• Energy dissipation capability EDc,l EDc,u
• Horizontal distortion capability dx,l dx,u
• Rotation capability αx,l αx,u
Measured energy dissipated by device in

EN 15129 ED,i ED,i
cycles
Cyclic response characteristics of a structural prCEN/TS 1998-

- General
member or subassembly 1-101
Value of coefficient cv1 for verification of

sliding at construction joint in RC walls prCEN/TS 1998-
cv1 cv1
according to EN 1992-1-1, in cyclic 1-101
conditions
Yield chord rotation of a member where a

prCEN/TS 1998-
plastic hinge can form in a beam in PS beam- y y
1-101
to-column joint
120
prEN 1998-1-1:2021 (E)
Bibliography
[1] EN 1337 (all parts), Structural Bearings.
[2] EN 15129, Anti-seismic devices.
[3] prCEN/TS 1998-1-101 (Eurocode 8, Part 1-101), Characterisation and qualification of structural
components for seismic applications by means of cyclic tests. WI 00250273 under development.
121

CEN-TC250-SC8 N1141 prEN 1998-1-1 2021 ENQ

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

CEN-TC250-SC8 N1141 prEN 1998-1-1 2021 ENQ

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

CEN/TC 250/SC 8 N 1141

CEN/TC 250/SC 8 "Eurocode 8: Earthquake resistance design of structures"

Document type Related content Document date Expected action

Eurocode 8 — Design of structures for earthquake resistance —Part 1-

Élément introductif — Élément central — Élément complémentaire

European foreword ...................................................................................................................................................... 6

6.7.2 Verifications to Significant Damage limit state .................................................................................. 57

Annex E (normative) Determination of target displacement and limit-state spectral

This document will supersede EN 1998-1:2004.

0.1 Introduction to the Eurocodes

0.3 Introduction to EN 1998-1-1

1.2 Scope of EN 1998-1-1

1.3 Further Parts of EN 1998

(1) Further Parts of EN 1998 include, in addition to EN 1998-1-1, the following:

EN 1998 (all parts), Eurocode 8: Design of structures for earthquake resistance

3 Terms, definitions and symbols

capacity design method

design displacement (of the isolation system in a principal direction)

dynamically independent unit

effective damping (of the isolation system in a principal direction)

effective period (of the isolation system in a principal direction)

effective stiffness (of the isolation system in a principal direction)

effective stiffness centre of the isolation system

energy dissipation device

energy dissipation system

main structural system

primary seismic member

reference seismic action

resistant structural member

secondary seismic member

seismic action class

seismic action index

specific seismic hazard studies

structure with energy dissipation systems

total design displacement (of an isolator in a principal direction)

3.2 Symbols and abbreviations

3.2.2.1 Symbols used in 4

3.2.2.1.1 Upper case Latin symbols

S Seismic action index

3.2.2.1.2 Lower case Greek symbols

 Coefficient that specifies S depending on the consequence class

3.2.2.2 Symbols used in 5

3.2.2.2.1 Upper case Latin symbols

DR Duration of the strong part of a ground motion

3.2.2.2.2 Lower case Latin symbols

dij,ld,max Maximum relative displacement of two sites at large distance

3.2.2.2.3 Lower case Greek symbols

 Factor for the evaluation of corner period TB based on TC

3.2.2.3 Symbols used in 6

3.2.2.3.1 Upper case Latin symbols

3.2.2.3.2 Lower case Latin symbols

3.2.2.3.3 Upper case Greek symbols

3.2.2.3.4 Lower case Greek symbols

3.2.2.4 Symbols used in 7

3.2.2.4.1 Upper case Latin symbols

A Cross-sectional area of steel brace

Aw Web area of the steel cross section

Q*y Effective yield resistance

3.2.2.4.2 Lower case Latin symbols

sw Transverse reinforcement centreline spacing

3.2.2.4.3 Upper case Greek symbols

 Deflection at the end of the shear span of a structural member