ABSTRACT
Non-linear numerical simulations have been widely used to study the inelastic response of reinforced concrete structures as well as load bearing masonry walls subjected to earthquake loading. While experimental investigations in this field are usually associated with large investments, numerical simulations, once validated, offer an efficient approach for parametric studies. Experimental results of a bare reinforced concrete frame and a frame with masonry infill walls are employed to validate the numerical calculations, so as to be used for further parametric studies. Load-bearing frame structures such as reinforced concrete frames can provide a high earthquake resistance if the beam-column joints are proper designed. The masonry infilled frame is idealized by a detailed three dimensional simulation model made up of a reinforced concrete frame connected by contact elements to the masonry infill wall. Since a high quality bond between the masonry wall and the surrounding frame cannot be guaranteed, the contact is restricted to compression stresses and frictional forces.
