Importance of Infill Masonry Walls in Improving the Seismic Response of Reinforced Concrete Buildings

Abstract

The treatment of masonry infill walls as non-structural elements in the design of reinforced concrete buildings has been refuted by the losses and damage recorded when these buildings were exposed to seismic loads. Between these walls, there is a type widely used in reinforced concrete buildings in Algeria. This article aims mainly to highlight the role of the infill masonry walls in improving the seismic response of reinforced concrete buildings to resist seismic loads. To demonstrate the above role, we have analyzed several models of two-dimensional frames of a multi-storey building located in a high seismic site, according to the classification of the current Algerian seismic code, with double-leaf hollow brick masonry, which is the most used infill material in Algeria. This analysis is based on the response spectrum method using the finite element software ETABS, taking into account the most important requirements of the current Algerian seismic code. We used the parameters of period, base shear, maximum displacement, and stiffness to evaluate the ability of these frames to respond to seismic loading; we analyzed several models in terms of the number of storeys. After analyzing all the models, we compared the results obtained, and then we were able to define this role and see what contribution these walls can make to the analytical aspect. Finally, we were able to know the positive role that these walls can play in improving the seismic performance of this type of building.