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

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.

Automated summary

This study investigates the seismic behavior of reinforced concrete frames, both conforming and non-conforming to modern seismic codes. The non-conforming frames are prone to shear failures involving infill panel and RC columns/joints. A proposed modeling approach is able to simulate these shear failures, contributing to more reliable numerical simulations of RC buildings.