---

In this paper, an optimization framework is developed for performance-based seismic design of composite moment frames consisting of concrete filled steel box columns and I-shaped steel beams. Material cost of the structure and seismic damage under severe earthquake ground motions are minimized as objective functions. Two design examples are presented to demonstrate the applicability and efficiency of the proposed method. Based on the obtained results, it is concluded that the proposed design optimization approach is capable of producing seismic designs of composite MRFs which are cost effective, provide reliable seismic performance and suffer less damage in the case of a severe earthquake ground motion.

---

Composite RCS building frames integrate reinforced concrete columns with structural steel beams to provide an efficient solution for the design and construction of earthquake-resisting structures. In this paper, an optimization framework is developed for performance-based seismic design of planar RCS moment resisting frames. The objective functions are defined as minimizing the construction cost and the seismic damage. The design variables are obtained in a two-stage design optimization procedure; the elastic design in which column cross-section dimensions are determined and the inelastic design in which beam cross-sections and column reinforcements are obtained. Two design examples are presented to demonstrate the applicability and efficiency of the proposed method. Based on the obtained results, it is concluded that the proposed design optimization procedure is a viable approach in producing cost effective seismic designs of composite RCS frames, with reliable seismic performance and reduced damage potential in the event of a severe earthquake ground motion.