Abstract:Along-wind aerodynamic damping ratios are identified from wind-induced responses of ten aeroelastic models in a simulated turbulence flow using the random decrement technique (RDT). Their validity is examined through comparison with previous research achievements and the results evaluated by quasi-steady theory. Based on them, the effects of aerodynamically modified cross-sections, such as chamfered corner and slotted corner, and tapering on aerodynamic damping of square high-rise buildings are investigated. Results indicate that: aerodynamic damping ratio increases as corner-cut ratio or taper ratio increases; low corner-cut ratios significantly decrease aerodynamic damping; however, modifications of building corners and tapering are not always effective at reducing the aerodynamic damping of tall buildings. According to the study of aerodynamic damping of square high-rise buildings and combining with the effect of corner-cut and tapering, an empirical aerodynamic damping function for high-rise buildings is proposed.