Illustrative Structural Comparison of RCC and Steel Structures Based on Numerical Analysis: An Educational Perspective

https://doi.org/10.46610/IJSAACT.2025.v01i02.005

Abstract

Reinforced cement concrete (RCC) and steel structures are two widely used construction systems, each with distinct characteristics. RCC combines the compressive strength of concrete with the tensile strength of steel reinforcement, making it ideal for buildings, bridges, and dams due to its durability, fire resistance, and cost-effectiveness. Steel structures, on the other hand, utilize steel’s high strength-to-weight ratio, offering flexibility, faster construction, and suitability for high-rise buildings and large-span structures, such as stadiums. While RCC is preferred for its robustness and low maintenance, steel structures excel in seismic zones and projects requiring rapid assembly and aesthetic versatility. This study presents an academic comparison of structural performance between RCC and steel structures for multistory buildings in Bangladesh. A four-storied (G+3) building was modeled using STAAD. Pro V8i for both RCC and steel with identical architectural plans to evaluate key responses such as base shear, seismic behavior, support reactions, deflection, and stress distribution. The load conditions were governed by BNBC (2006), with RCC designed per ACI 2008 (USD) and steel per AISC 2010 (LRFD). Key findings reveal that the RCC structure exhibited a 31.09% higher base shear and greater seismic load due to its weight, whereas the steel structure demonstrated superior load distribution with up to 94.2% higher support reactions. Steel’s flexibility also resulted in greater horizontal deflection and stress concentration under seismic and wind loads. These insights highlight RCC’s stability under static loads and steel’s adaptability to dynamic conditions, guiding material choices for efficient building design and providing a foundation for future studies incorporating contemporary design standards.