R. Nudo - Assoc. Professor, University of Florence, Italy,

his paper presents experimental results from twenty-four specimens tested under simulated earthquake loading in order to study inelastic response of high strength concrete (HSC) elements. Characteristics of specimens and testing procedures have been defined on the basis of the following variables affecting response of RC elements: compressive strength of concrete, amount of longitudinal and transverse reinforcement, axial load level. Analysis of results has pointed out a satisfactory behavior of HSC elements in terms of ductility and energy absorption capacity, particularly in the case of specimens characterized by the higher transverse reinforcement ratio at plastic hinge zones. This fact may encourage a wider use of HSC in the case of earthquake-resistant structures for which medium-low ductility levels are requested.