Experimental seismic performance assessment of asymmetric masonry buildings

This paper presents the experimental validation and analyses of a structural constructive system based on concrete block masonry. The system has been proposed as an innovative solution for the construction of residential buildings. In the present study, an asymmetric configuration for the masonry buildings tested at the shaking table was adopted, being considered two buildings (reinforced and unreinforced). The seismic performance of both buildings is evaluated based on global and relative displacements, global damage patterns and failure mechanisms. Additionally, a comparison of the mechanical performance between the two buildings is also provided. Both structures were tested to "near collapse" condition from which it was found the influence of the geometrical configuration and the presence of steel reinforcement. The reinforced building attained an input acceleration twice the unreinforced building on the weak direction. The structure developed important in-plane and out-of-plane damage mainly at the first level including detachment of units, structural components (wall to wall) and failure of horizontal reinforcement. On the other hand, the damage observed on the unreinforced building was more distributed along the height of the building, is characterized for lower detachment of units but for a clear sliding mechanism at the second level along the cracks at the bed joints.