Earthquake-resistant design of structures has grown into a true multi-disciplinary field of engineering wherein many exciting developments are possible in the near future. Most notable among these are: (a) a complete probabilistic analysis and design approach; (b) performance-based design codes; (c) multiple annual probability hazard maps for response spectral accelerations and peak ground accelerations with better characterization of site soils, topography, near-field effects; (d) new structural systems and devices using non-traditional civil engineering materials and techniques; and (e) new refined analytical tools for reliable prediction of structural response, including nonlinearity, strength and stiffness degradation due to cyclic loads, geometry effects and more importantly, effects of soil-structure interaction. Some significant developments that the coming Sears will witness are discussed in this paper. [References: 22]
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