Comparative Seismic Behavior of RC Structures with Fiber-Reinforced and Nanocomposite Elastomeric Isolators

Abstract:

This paper presents a comparative seismic performance evaluation of reinforced concrete (RC) buildings Fiber-reinforced elastomeric isolator (FREI), and fiber-reinforced nanocomposite elastomeric isolator (FRNEI) configurations using Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA) in ETABS, following ASCE 7‑22 provisions. A regular G+8 RC moment-resisting frame was analyzed under Site Class D conditions, with isolator properties corresponding to a 67 kN axial load case derived from experimental data. Response parameters such as maximum lateral displacement and story shear in both principal directions were examined to quantify the influence of isolation stiffness on seismic demands. Results indicate that both FREI and FRNEI systems substantially reduce story shear compared to the fixed base, with FREI producing larger base displacements and FRNEI achieving additional reductions in both displacement and shear due to its higher lateral stiffness and improved damping, as nano clay is used as a nanocomposite material. The findings confirm that FRNEI offers a more balanced performance, effectively limiting deformation while maintaining isolation benefits, thereby enhancing the seismic resilience of mid-rise RC buildings.

• Periodical: Construction Technologies and Architecture (Volume 23)
• Pages: 103-110
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-agT80B
• Online since: May 2026
• Authors: Bisma Latif*, Abdul Qudoos, Dhanesh Kumar
• Keywords: Fiber-Reinforced Elastomeric Isolators (FREI), Fiber-Reinforced Nanocomposite Elastomeric Isolators (FRNEI), RC Buildings, Response Spectrum Analysis, Seismic Isolation

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DOI: 10.1002/pc.20803