Seismic Response of Reinforced Concrete Frames Infilled With Weakly Reinforced Masonry Panels

The research work presented in this paper is related to the seismic response of RC frames infilled with weak masonry panels, as it is traditional in many seismic prone countries in southern Europe. More specifically, the benefits derived from the insertion of a light reinforcement, in the mortar layers or in the external plaster, are studied in some detail. Tests have been performed on different types of single bay, single storey, infilled frames to investigate the in-plane response at different earthquake intensity levels and the out-of-plane strength as a function of the in-plane damage. A series of parametric simulations have then been performed, calibrating the models used in the test results, to evaluate the effects of the different panels characteristics on the response of whole buildings, with different infill patterns. Both in-plane and the out-of-plane response have been considered. The results are described in terms of peak ground acceleration required to induce given limit states of serviceability or damage relatively far from the collapse of the structure, which is governed by the RC frame design more than by the infill panels properties.