Progressive Collapse of Structures: Nomenclature and Procedures

Abstract

Definitions for the terms collapse resistance and robustness are proposed. Based on an analysis of the shortcomings of current design methods, a pragmatic approach for designing against progressive collapse is suggested and a set of design criteria is presented. Design strategies based on preventing or presuming local failure are compared. Furthermore, the alternate-load-paths approach is compared with the compartmentalization approach concerning their applicability to different types of structures and design objectives.