Progressive collapse analysis of steel building considering effects of infill panels

Simplifier assumptions which are used in numerical studies of progressive collapse phenomenon in structures indicate inconsistency between the numerical and experimental full-scale results. Neglecting the effects of infill panels and two-dimensional simulation are some of these assumptions. In this study, an existing seismically code-designed steel building is analyzed with alternate path method (AP) to assess its resistance against progressive collapse. In the AP method, the critical columns be removed immediately and stability of the remaining structure is investigated. Analytical macro-model based on the equivalent strut approach is used to simulate the effective infill panels. The 3-dimentional nonlinear dynamic analysis results show that modeling the slabs and infill panels can increase catenary actions and stability of the structure to resist progressive collapse even if more than one column removed. Finally, a formula is proposed to determine potential of collapse of the structure based on the quantity and quality of the produced plastic hinges in the connections.