journal article·2025-05-26Open access

Seismic Response Analysis of Multi-Floored Grain Warehouses with Composite Structures Under Varying Grain-Loading Conditions

Zidan Li, Yonggang Ding, Jinquan Zhao, Chengzhou Guo, Zhenhua Xu, Guoqi Ren, Qikeng Xu, Qingjun Xian, Rongyu Yang

Applied Sciences· Volume 15· Issue 11

Abstract

Multi-floored grain warehouses are widely used in China due to their efficient space utilization and high storage capacity. This study evaluates the seismic performance of such structures using a Composite Structure of Steel and Concrete (CSSC) system under various grain-loading conditions. A finite element model was developed in OpenSees based on actual loading scenarios, with both pushover and time history analyses conducted. Results show that the EEF condition (E = Empty, F = Full; top–middle–bottom = Empty–Empty–Full) leads to a 35.14% increase in peak base shear compared to the FEE condition (grain on the top floor only). Capacity spectrum analysis indicates that EEF provides higher initial stiffness and lower displacement across all performance points. Time history results reveal that configurations with lighter upper mass (EFF, EEE) are more prone to top-floor acceleration amplification, while FFF and FFE demonstrate more stable responses due to balanced mass distribution. The maximum inter-story drift consistently occurs at the second floor, with FFF and FFE showing the most significant deformation. All drift ratios meet code limits, confirming the safety and applicability of the CSSC system under various storage scenarios.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Structural Response to Dynamic Loads · Masonry and Concrete Structural Analysis · Innovations in Concrete and Construction Materials

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Affiliations

Henan Key Laboratory of Grain and Oil Storage Facility & Safety, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China

College of Civil Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China

Henan University of Technology Design and Research Academy Co., Ltd., Zhengzhou 450001, China

Funding

Henan Key Laboratory of Grain and Oil Storage Facility & Safety · Henan University of Technology Design and Research Academy–Research on Prefabricated Multi-Floored Grain Warehouse Structures · Natural Science Foundation of Henan · Fundamental Research Funds for the Henan Provincial Colleges and Universities in Henan University of Technology

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