Gap effects on the seismic ductility of brick infilled concrete frames

This paper presents the results of an experimental study of reinforced concrete frames with brick infill wall panels subject to cyclic, horizontal loading. The concrete frame was detailed in accordance with the minimum seismic detailing requirements of the Australian Standard for Concrete Structures for an intermediate moment resisting frame. Four frames were tested. One had no infill and served as a reference for the three infilled frames. Three different construction gap sizes (15mm, 10mm and 5mm) between the concrete frame and brick infill were studied. The strength and ductility of the frames were evaluated from the experimental data and compared to the design values given in the Australian Loading Code - Part 4: Earthquake Loads. In these tests the brick infill increased the strength of the bare frame by 40% and improved the ductility of the bare frame, however, the system ductility was significantly less than the design value.