Numerical assessment of seismic performance enhancement in masonryinfilled RC frames using energy-dissipating material

The interaction between reinforced concrete (RC) frames and infill masonry walls plays a critical role in the seismic performance of structures. Post-earthquake observations have shown that buildings with masonry-infilled RC frames often suffer significant damage due to the excessive stiffness of infill walls rigidly connected to the main frame. This study examines the influence of infill masonry walls on the lateral strength, stiffness, and energy dissipation capacity of RC frames through numerical analysis of scaled models. Three configurations are considered: a bare RC frame, an RC frame with masonry infill, and an RC frame with masonry infill incorporating expanded polystyrene as an energy-dissipating layer. The RC frame model is calibrated and validated using experimental data and serves as the reference for analysing the other two models. Pushover and cyclic loading tests are carried out to assess the seismic response of the infilled frame, with particular attention of the effect of energy-dissipating materials.