Experimental and Finite Element Analytical Investigation of Seismic Behavior of Full-Scale Masonry Infilled RC Frames

This article investigates the seismic behavior of masonry infilled RC frames with/without openings. Four full-scale, single-story, and single-bay specimens were tested under constant vertical loads and quasi-static cyclic lateral loads. The experimental results showed that the infill wall was more influential in stiffness than in load-resisting capacity. The opening increased the ductility ratio of the structure due to the uniform distribution and slow propagation of cracks. Finally, simplified micro finite element models are established to simulate the tested specimens, which effectively predict the load-displacement response of the structures and the crack damage of masonry infill wall with acceptable accuracy.