Purpose–Recent earthquake losses on contemporary structures have highlighted the critical need for research into evaluating various performance limit levels and seismic safety of code-compliant structures. So, the concepts of performance-based design and vulnerability assessment of structure have taken an alternative form in seismic analysis. This study is intended to meter the impact of the near field/fault ground motions on the response of G+10RC structures with varying geometry are exposed to the different magnitude of earthquake forces. Influence is measured directly by quantifying the potential of damage caused to the structure. Analytical paradigm was developed for relating specific structural response with various geometrical parameters and the type of ground motion applied. Design/methodology/approach – In this study twenty-seven G+10 RC structural frames and 12 different near fault ground motions from minor, moderate and major earthquake categories are considered. For each ground motion response spectrum was developed by scaling it to target response spectrum. The nonlinear time history (NTHA) is carried out on each reinforced concrete frame by applying each ground motion. Responses of the structure were recorded in each THA. Recorded response were analysed and analytical models were developed relating the structural responses and characteristics of earthquake ground motion, geometry of the structure. Probabilities of damage of the structures are calculated based on Hazus-MH 2.1(Hazus ®MH 2.1 Tech Manual)[22] Findings– The probability damage curves predicted the severity of damage of the structure for a given spectral displacement. The impact of the characteristics of near field ground motions and geometry of the structure on the response of the RC structure. And analytical model developed relating the structural responses and characteristics of near field ground motions and geometry of the structure. Practical implications – Analytical models developed for structural responses of G+10 structure through NTHA of the structures can be used as an alternative for experimental modelling to study the impact of near field ground motions on structure. The curves developed for fragility are useful in gauging the extent of damage that occurs. Originality/value – Most of the previous studies considered reinforced concrete structures subjected to one ground motion only. However, in the study presented in this paper, various seismic parameters for an RC structure subjected to various sets of ground motions were determined to assess influence of magnitude of ground motion and geometry of the structure on structural response. This study is useful in assessing the seismic performance and vulnerability. Given the assessment, it will be useful in designing more efficient and economical structures.

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