Seismic Performance of Point-Fixed Glass Façade Systems

Abstract

Point-fixed glass façade systems (PFGFSs) are widely used as modern building envelopes.  This type of façade is particularly susceptible to seismic action; however, its seismic performance hasn’t been sufficiently quantified. To address this challenge, the seismic behaviour of a 3D steel moment-resisting frame (SMRF) with PFGFS was evaluated. The model includes the SMRF, laminated glass panels (LGP), spider arms, and substructure. The numerical model was analysed for 15 pairs of earthquake acceleration spectra at three levels of intensity. The results clearly indicate that the PFGFS experiences substantially higher seismic demands than the main structural frame. Specifically, inter-storey drift ratios (IDRs) and peak floor accelerations (PFA) values in the façade system were up to 70% and 80% greater than those of the SMRF, respectively, particularly at upper storeys and under Near Collapse (NeC) level earthquakes. These results indicate that the PFGFS does not simply follow the response of the primary structural frame. Instead, the façade system experiences amplified dynamic effects under seismic loading. Therefore, façade systems require independent seismic assessment rather than relying solely on structural frame response.