ABSTRACT
This chapter shows that pseudo-static cyclic experimental tests on gravity- and seismic-load designed Reinforced Concrete (RC) frames with and without masonry infill. The present study reports results of pseudo-static experimental tests on one-storey one-bay RC frames with and without masonry infill walls. Experimental results show that the post-elastic behaviour of gravity-load designed specimens was controlled by brittle failure mechanisms. RC buildings designed for gravity loads only or according to obsolete seismic codes are widespread in Italian and Mediterranean building stock. In seismic-load specimens, as expected, the application of capacity design principles led to a ductile, flexure-controlled post-elastic behaviour, with plastic hinges at beam's ends and at columns' base, with or without the presence of the infill panel. The reported results can provide useful insights into the response of infilled RC frames, with emphasis on the typical failure modes of substandard existing RC buildings.
