Experimental Study on Seismic Damage Mitigation Methods for Light-Gauge Steel Partition Walls With Door Openings

This study evaluates mitigation methods for seismic damage to gypsum boards around door openings in light-gauge steel partition walls. Quasi-static loading tests on the methods, such as clearance gaps and vertical slits, confirmed their effectiveness. The combined application of the mitigation methods prevented visible damage up to an interstory drift ratio of 1% and limited damage to minor cracking at 2%. While repair-time reduction beyond 1% drift was moderate, the methods successfully localized damage and maintained wall and door functionality.