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In this paper, following a description of the damage index resulting from the occurrence of an
earthquake in reinforced concrete structures, the
principal parameters influencing the calculation of
such an index are explained in detail. The relevance of this index and the extent of physical
damage is presented, thereafter.
Afterwards, a new definition for the structure
response coefficient (R) will be presented on the basis of the damage index. For the earthquake
corresponding to the serviceability limit state, a value for the damage index is suggested. In the
end, a seven-storey reinforced concrete building is studied and the effect of various parameters on
the damage index is discussed.