Development of a code-compliant seismic input for shake table testing of acceleration-sensitive nonstructural elements

Seismic response and performance of acceleration-sensitive nonstructural elements (NEs) significantly depend on the features of the seismic input. Damage severity of real records cannot always be associated with levels of intensity measures, such as peak ground acceleration or Arias intensity, especially if NEs exhibit complex dynamic behavior. In fact, shake table assessment of NEs is often carried out considering artificial seismic inputs that are defined in order to optimize damage severity and seismic representativity. These artificial seismic inputs are typically provided by shake table protocols, which do not often provide details regarding the consistency in terms of seismic hazard and building response; moreover, no literature studies assessed their representativity and damage severity with regard to NEs. The present study reports a novel methodology to generate seismic inputs to be compliant with code seismic demand formulations. These seismic inputs could be primarily used to perform shake table testing but might even be considered as loading histories for implementing numerical analyses. The case study is represented by the Italian building code, which provides a recently developed formulation for determining the seismic demand on NEs. The technical aspects and applicative interventions associated with a robust definition of code-compliant seismic inputs are provided. The potential damage severity of the seismic inputs compliant with Italian building code is estimated and proven to be consistent with seismic demands associated with real severe floor records recorded in instrumented buildings. The study contributes to the literature and practice in terms of technical guidance for defining code-compliant seismic input for shake table testing and seismic qualification. Even though the inputs are developed considering the Italian building code as a reference, the methodology can be easily applied considering other seismic demand formulations