An Overview of Progressive Collapse

Abstract

Progressive collapse is spread of an initial local structural danna9e causing partial or total collapse of structure. It is a kind of chain reaction where local damage of primary load carrying element causes the collapse of adjoining members which in turn, leads to additional collapse, The ultimate collapse is disproportionate to the original cause. In today's fast growing infrastructure t rend, it is necessary to accommodate the most unfavorable situations in structure design. At the same time it is equally important to make it financially viable. Progressive collapse is a situation which can be triggered 1rom any kind of abnormal loading or event like vehicle impact, bomb blast, design or construction error etc. Failure of any load carrying structural member can lead to catastrophic failure. In present literature study, an attempt has b?en made to cover the basic aspects of progressive collapse like historical background, mechanism, development of guidelines etc.