Abstract

Featured Application The findings of this study support the development of more accurate seismic design criteria for reinforced concrete shear wall buildings constructed on sloped terrains. These results can be used by engineers and code developers to refine seismic design parameters in regions with complex topographies, improving structural safety and performance during earthquakes.Abstract Currently, seismic-resistant design is carried out by applying codes that are periodically updated based on research findings and lessons learned from major seismic events. In the case of buildings located on sloping terrains and those composed of reinforced concrete shear walls, there is a notable lack of specific design provisions in existing standards. For this reason, the methodology outlined in FEMA P695 was applied in the present study, with the aim of validating the response reduction factor used for designing this type of structure in Chile. Additionally, other parameters that allow for the evaluation of design performance or serve as complementary indicators-such as ductility, the overstrength factor, and the displacement amplification factor-were determined. To conduct this study, a series of archetype buildings were designed, varying the slope inclination from 0 degrees to 45 degrees. The results show that, although the current design approach ensures safety, it is necessary to specify different design parameters for the directions parallel and orthogonal to the slope in order to optimize the seismic performance of the buildings.