Summary
An experimental program was performed for evaluating the seismic response and fragilities of nonstructural lightweight steel drywall partitions, also considering the interaction with structural elements and other nonstructural building components, ie, outdoor façade walls. Therefore, in‐plane quasi‐static reversed cyclic tests were carried out on 8 specimens of indoor partition walls infilled in a frame and on 4 specimens of indoor partition walls connected at its ends with transversal outdoor façade walls. Constructive parameters under investigation include type of connections used for connecting the indoor partition walls to the surrounding elements, stud spacing, type of sheathing panels, and type of jointing finishing. The effect of the constructive parameters on the lateral response in secant stiffness and strength is examined. Furthermore, the main damage phenomena observed during the tests are reported and associated to 3 damage limit states distinguished for the required repair level for the tested partition walls. Fragility curves are used for the experimental assessment of seismic fragility of the tested specimens, in accordance with the interstorey drift limits required by the European code. Finally, the quantitative estimation of the repair action costs starting from the damage observation is also developed. The obtained results could be considered a starting point for developing the in‐plane seismic design assisted by testing of lightweight steel drywall partition walls.
Damages of non-structural components during a seismic event can involve risks for the human life, interruption of ordinary activities and significant economic losses. Therefore, the understanding of the seismic behaviour of non-structural components is a fundamental prerequisite for their use. In this context, a cooperation between the University of Naples "Federico II" and KnaufGips KG Company, aimed to the knowledge of seismic response of lightweight steel drywall non-structural components was carried forward. In this framework, shake table tests were carried out on protoypes composed by indoor partition walls, outdoor façade walls and suspended continuous ceilings. The influence on seismic response of basic and enhanced anti-seismic solutions, corresponding to the use of fixed or sliding connections at the walls and ceilings perimeter, was investigated. The seismic response in terms of damage occurrence was also evaluated by fragility curves, which show that enhanced solutions have a better seismic response than basic solutions and indoor partition walls have a higher seismic “fragility” than outdoor façade walls.
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