ABSTRACT
This chapter suggests that developed analytical model for the force-displacement response of URM walls is used to investigate the effective stiffness. It utilizes a developed analytical model-the CDC model-for the prediction of the effective stiffness of URM walls. The proper determination of an effective stiffness of systems shows that a non-linear load-displacement behaviour is of paramount importance in both design approaches. The elastic analysis, basis of the equivalent force method along with the response spectrum method, is based on the effective stiffness of the elements rather than their gross sectional stiffness. The stiffness of the individual components is important for the force distribution within the structure as well: The global force applied on a system is distributed between the system's load bearing components according to their respective stiffnesses. A concluding parametric study shows that the predicted development of the effective stiffness related to the change in different boundary conditions seems to agree well with behaviours observed in tests and stresses.
