Influence of Infill-to-Frame Connection on the Seismic Response of RC Frames

Existing reinforced concrete buildings subjected to medium intensity earthquake loads often exhibit significant damage to structural and non-structural components that may compromise the structural safety and the building repairability. This damage is commonly concentrated on infills and partitions leading to relevant economic losses. This makes the research on the lateral response of infills and on the role of infill-to-frame connection of paramount importance to reliably assess the seismic performance of existing buildings. This paper discusses the results of an experimental program on full-scale multi-storey infilled RC frames tested under pseudo-dynamic loads. Emphasis is given to the variability of the results with the different infill-to-frame connection realized with classic mortar applied on four sides or with a gap below the beam. The lateral response and the observed damage at increasing earthquake intensities are discussed and compared.