Qualitative and Quantitative Seismic Evaluation of Reinforced Concrete Structures in Petrochemical Plant

Abstract

In this paper the seismic evaluation of reinforced concrete structures in petrochemical facilities under sever conditions such as high pressure, high temperature and corrosive environment is studied. These structures were designed and constructed during 1976-78. The evaluation procedure is basically performed in two phases namely; a) qualitative and b) quantitative methods. In the qualitative evaluation, all possible documentations including drawings, specifications, structural calculations, new additions and test results were studied. Collected data then was summarized in an evaluation checklist. When the needed requirements did not meet the specified entries, more detailed and quantitative analysis were performed and utilized in this study. Quantitative and numerical study was performed using finite element modeling under sever loading combinations. Based on the results of this evaluation, some important RC structures in this plant were highly vulnerable to seismic forces which required immediate attention. The methodology used and results obtained can be generalized and adapted for similar facilities. This paper will present details, procedure and conclusions obtained.