Comparative assessment of seismic analysis procedures: Eurocode 8 vs. KTP.N2-89

This paper evaluates seismic design considerations for a typical reinforced concrete (RC) building in Albania, comparing the provisions of Eurocode 8 (EC8) and the Albanian seismic code, KTP.N2-89. The primary focus is on the design spectra, analyzing differences in site coefficients, spectral shapes, and the inclusion of near- and far-field seismic concepts in EC8. The study applies both codes to various soil types, calculating base shear demands and highlighting key discrepancies. EC8 introduces detailed soil classification using shear wave velocity (VS-30) and site factors, offering a more nuanced framework compared to KTP.N2-89’s simpler system. Base shear demands generally increase with softer soils, with EC8 Type 1 producing the highest values across all soil types due to its more conservative approach. In contrast, KTP.N2-89 often results in lower base shear values, except for very soft soils, where its kE factor amplifies seismic forces. The findings reveal limitations in KTP.N2-89, particularly its lack of comprehensive guidelines for soil effects and earthquake source characteristics. The study emphasizes the need to revise Albania’s seismic code, adopting EC8’s advanced methodologies to improve structural resilience and ensure safer designs in earthquake-prone regions.