Experimental Assessment and Numerical Modelling of Conforming and Non-Conforming RC Frames with and without Infills

ABSTRACT

Research efforts are still required for modelling the seismic behaviour of infilled frames, especially for existing buildings, generally characterised by shear failures. This work discusses the experimental seismic behaviour and the related modelling of four conforming (compliant with modern seismic codes) and non-conforming (gravity-loads-designed) Reinforced Concrete (RC) frames with and without infills (with hollow-clay bricks). The experimental results are analysed, showing that non-conforming frames exhibited shear failures involving the infill panel and the RC columns/joints. A proposed modelling approach able to reproduce these shear failures is carried out, providing support towards more reliable numerical simulations of RC buildings.

KEYWORDS:

• Experimental testing
• RC frames
• infills
• hollow clay bricks
• failure mode
• local interaction
• shear failures

Acknowledgments

This work was developed under the financial support of ReLUIS‐DPC 2014‐2018 Linea Cemento Armato ‐ WP6 Tamponature, funded by the Italian Department of Civil Protection (DPC). This support is gratefully acknowledged.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Italian Department of Civil Protection [E56D16000670005].