# Post-Earthquake Fire Resistance in Structures: A Review of Current Research and Future Directions
## 8 Performance-Based Design for PEF
### Need for PEF Incorporation in Codes and Analysis  
Most current building codes and standards do not adequately address the potential for post-earthquake fire (PEF) in their earthquake resistance design considerations. As a result, structures designed solely for seismic resistance may be insufficiently protected in a PEF scenario. This concern is particularly relevant for \"ordinary\" structures, such as residential and educational buildings, which constitute a significant portion of the urban landscape [50]. Historical data indicates that following an earthquake, it takesconsiderably longer to extinguish a fire due to damaged infrastructure and hindered access for firefighters [66]. Research has shown that the fire resistance required in a PEF situation is significantly greater than that required for a fire occurring in isolation [50]. Consequently, buildings should be designed to endure PEF events for a minimum duration to allow for the safe evacuation of occupants [3]. It is crucial to consider PEF as a design scenario when developing performance-based provisions for areas prone to strong earthquakes [75]. Several studies have confirmed that structures compromised by seismic activity exhibit heightened vulnerability to fire compared to undamaged structures [50; 65; 75]. For example, research on steel moment-resisting frames has revealed a significant reduction in fire resistance when these structures have been previously subjected to earthquakes [75; 99; 100]. Notably, damage to fireproofing materials, such as those used in steel structures, is a major concern in PEF scenarios [72]. Earthquakes can cause these protective materials to detach, exposing structural components to direct flames and potentially leading to rapid collapse [3; 100]. The lack of specific regulations addressing post-earthquake fire (PEF) in current design standards underscores the need for a comprehensive investigation into the response of various urban structures to PEF loads. This is particularly critical for irregular structures, which are more susceptible to earthquake damage [71]. Moreover, research should explore the influence of various variables on PEF resistance, some examples being the following:  
* Fire scenarios: The location and spread of fire within a structure significantly affect its PEF resistance [71].
* Material behavior: The degradation of material properties at elevated temperatures is crucial in determining PEF resistance [31; 68].
* Performance levels: Structures designed for different performance levels (e.g., Immediate Occupancy, Life Safety) exhibit varying degrees of vulnerability to PEF [66].  
In conclusion, integrating PEF considerations into building codes and analysis processes is essential for ensuring the resilience of structures in earthquake-prone regions. This integration requires the development and adoption of comprehensive analysis methods that accurately capture the combined effects of earthquake damage and fire, ultimately leading to safer and more robust structural designs. Such integrative approaches will enhance the safety and durability of structures, ensuring they can withstand the dual threats posed by earthquakes and subsequent fires.