Implementation of a macro model to predict seismicrnresponse of RC structural walls

A relatively simple multiple-vertical-line-element macro model has been incorporated into arnstandard computer code DRAIN-2D. It was used in blind predictions of seismic response of cantilever RCrnwalls subjected to a series of consequent earthquakes on a shaking table. The model was able to predictrnpredominantly flexural response with relative success. It was able to predict the stiffness and the strengthrnof the pre-cracked specimen and time-history response of the highly nonlinear wall as well as to simulaternthe shift of the neutral axis and corresponding varying axial force in the cantilever wall. However, failingrnto identify the rupture of some brittle reinforcement in the third test, the model was not able to predictrnpost-critical, near collapse behaviour during the subsequent response to two stronger earthquakes. Thernanalysed macro model seems to be appropriate for global analyses of complex building structures withrnRC structural walls subjected to moderate/strong earthquakes. However, it cannot, by definition, be usedrnin refined research analyses monitoring local behaviour in the post critical region.