A NEW GENERATION OF SEISMIC CODES: THE EUROPEAN RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STEEL STRUCTURES IN SEISMIC AREA

The European Recommendations for Steel Structures in Seismic Zones (ERSSSZ) represent a significant example of a new generation of seismic codes. The main principles, which these Recommendations are based upon, are presented here, together with a short survey of the contents. The subjects of main interest in calculation, design and durability of seismic-resistant steel structures are particularly emphasized and the research needs in this field are also underlined