The influence of distribution of masonry infill panels on the seismic response of RC framed structures

This paper presents the influence of distribution of masonry infill wall panels in Reinforced Concrete Framed Structures, when subjected to representative ground motions. A detailed analytical investigation of particular seismically vulnerable configuration of a framed structure on stilt columns (due to interruption of masonry wall panels at ground level) has been performed. The non-linear structural analysis programme IDARC-2D version 4.0 has been employed to perform the non-linear dynamic time history analysis of a typical masonry infilled framed building on stilt columns and provide analytical prediction on the extent of damage and possibility of collapse of such structures during Earthquakes. A typical three bay ten-story Reinforced Concrete Building Frame is analysed under strong ground motion to evaluate the influence of masonry infilled panels on the dynamic response and seismic performance.