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Reinforced Concrete Wide-Beam Frames (WBF) are a common architectural solution in Mediterranean countries. On this structural typology there is not yet a uniform approach among European codes: while Eurocode 8, as other relevant seismic codes in USA and New Zealand, considers WBF capable of high ductility performances, still in recent versions of Spanish and Italian seismic codes there is cap to the maximum behaviour factor ( q ) for this structural system. In order to verify the appropriateness of such provisions, seismic performances of WBF and conventional deep beam frames (DBF) are comparatively assessed through nonlinear static analyses. The same architectural layout of a typical European 5-storey RC housing unit is designed as WBF and DBF according to Eurocode 8, adopting different stiffness assumptions, and according to the Spanish seismic code NCSE-02. Based on detailed assessment results, a simplified parametric assessment of 72 frames designed according to Eurocode 8, Italian seismic code NTC and NCSE-02 is then considered assuming similar q for WBF and DBF. Results suggest that any reduction of behaviour factor prescribed for wide-beam frames is at least obsolete. In fact, even if wide beams show lower local ductility than deep beams, generally WBF provide at least similar global seismic capacities than DBF, especially in frames whose design is ruled by serviceability limit state (i.e., damage limitation). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some Mediterranean seismic codes consider wide-beam reinforced concrete moment resisting frames (WBF) as horizontal load carrying systems that cannot guarantee high ductility performances. Conversely, Eurocode 8 allows High Ductility Class (DCH) design for such structural systems. Code prescriptions related to WBF are systematically investigated. In particular, lesson learnt for previous earthquakes, historical reasons, and experimental and numerical studies underpinning specific prescriptions on wide beams in worldwide seismic codes are discussed. Local and global ductility of WBF are then analytically investigated through (1) a parametric study on chord rotations of wide beams with respect to that of deep beams, and (2) a spectral-based comparison of WBF with conventional reinforced concrete moment resisting frames (i.e. with deep beams). Results show that the set of prescriptions given by modern seismic codes provides sufficient ductility to WBF designed in DCH. In fact, global capacity of WBF relies more on the lateral stiffness of the frames and on the overstrength of columns rather than on the local ductility of wide beams, which is systematically lower with respect to that of deep beams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The situation of depopulation that rural Spain has been experiencing for more than half a century has led to the progressive abandonment and loss of traditional architecture in agroforestry environments. In the current context, where sustainability criteria set a paradigm, the rescue and reuse of these traditional constructions (farmhouses, farmhouses, inns, corrals, etc.) represents in itself a sustainable action. Implementing low environmental impact and economically viable architectural solutions that contribute to the revitalisation of rural heritage is a very good opportunity to develop and apply new methodologies and materials in sustainable construction processes and systems, as set out in the European Green Pact and, specifically, in the European Bioeconomy Strategy and the Energy Efficiency Directive. Under these principles, this work proposes an intervention methodology that allows the integration of the pre-existing architecture with prefabricated elements made of wood and cork as ecological materials. As an example of the application of this methodology, the intervention for the rehabilitation of a rural building in ruins is presented in order to be used for public use, specifically as an interpretation centre for an Iberian archaeological site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]