Non-linear static analysis of masonry-infilled RC frames

A common type of construction is low-rise and mid-rise reinforced concrete buildings with unreinforced masonry walls which are usually referred to as infill walls filling the spaces bounded by their structural frames. The effect of these walls may be ignored if the frame is to be designed against gravity. However, ignoring the effect of infill walls against seismic loads may lead to a highly vulnerable situation under earthquake motions. Therefore, in non-linear analysis, this effect should be taken into account in numerical model using equivalent diagonal strut approaches for accurate solution. This study aims to explore the effect of masonry-infilled frame on the non-linear static analysis. In this context, non-linear static analysis (pushover) has been performed based on FEMA 356 for these approaches separately. Besides, the effect of thickness of the wall on the lateral response is also studied. Results show that frames with unreinforced masonry walls infills generally enhance lateral capacity and energy dissipation. © 2013 Taylor & Francis Group.