Modeling of openings in masonry infill panels in r.c. frames, 2d approach

Abstract EN

In typical design procedures, structural engineers neglect the presence of masonry infill panels, and this is a result of the absence of an accurate and simple analytical model.

One of the most important reasons that lead to the complexity of modeling the masonry infill panels is the usual presence of openings in these panels.

The totally in filled frame with panels having no openings is a rare case, while the general case is the frame having panels with openings such as window, door and air conditions openings.

Neglecting the existence of openings in infill panels while determining the seismic capacity of R.

C.

framed structures will result in inaccurate estimation of lateral stiffness, strength, ductility and seismic capacity of buildings.

In this study the masonry infill panels are modeled using macro-modeling technique.

In macro models, the infill panel is replaced by one or two diagonal struts (Holmes [1], Chrysotomou [2] and Stafford Smith [3]).

Properties of the struts are determined based on experimental data or micro model (finite element) investigations.

Macro models are computationally efficient and suitable to study the overall structural response of the building.

The objectives of this study are to propose a simple model for openings in masonry infill panels that can be used in two-dimensional analysis.

Also to find out the influence of presence of openings in infill panels on the behavior of R.

C.

frame buildings under seismic loading.

So a probabilistic study was held to investigate the efficiency of the new proposed model for openings and to find out the influence of its presence on the lateral stiffness of masonry infill panels and subsequently on the seismic capacity of R.

C.

framed structures.