Force reduction factor for building structures equipped with added viscous dampers

This research work focuses on the analysis of the hysteretic seismic behaviour of inelastic SDOF systems equipped with viscous dampers. In detail, it is aimed at obtaining a practical tool useful for the seismic design of building structures with added dampers, within the framework of the traditional seismic design based on ductility. The objective is to evaluate the appropriate force reduction factor for highly damped (i.e. damping ratio greater than 5 %) SDOF systems able to guarantee a prescribed level of structural safety.