Simplified Method To Predict the Nonlinear Seismic Performance of Masonry-Infilled RC Frames

Abstract eng:
This paper presents a numerical study on the seismic performance of reinforced concrete (RC) frames with masonry infill walls. The study is based on an extensive parametric study using a detailed finite element model validated with laboratory tests. The model combines the discrete and smeared crack modeling approaches to capture the diffused flexural and dominant shear cracks in the RC members, the crushing and tensile splitting of the masonry units, as well as the mixedmode fracture of the mortar joints. The study examines the influence of a number of geometric and design parameters on the seismic performance of these structures and proposes a simplified methodology to predict the failure pattern under in-plane seismic loads. The proposed methodology classifies the infilled frames based on the relative strength and stiffness of the frame and the infill. The results of this procedure have been used successfully to predict the response of experimentally tested infilled RC frames. The comparison of the predicted and experimentally observed responses indicates that the proposed methodology can predict the failure mechanism with sufficient accuracy.

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