Design of Reinforced Concrete Infilled Frames

The work presented in this paper aimed to evaluate the diagonal strut model for the design of reinforced concrete (RC) infilled frames, already broadly used as a design tool in the case of masonry infilled RC frames. The assumptions on which the strut model provisions in codes are based are reviewed. In parallel, some of the results of an experimental study on the response of eight 1/3-scale RC infilled frames subjected to quasi-static cyclic horizontal displacements are summarized. Two different aspect ratios and different types of connection of the infill to the frame have been investigated. Design provisions for infilled frames included in codes are applied to describe the behavior of the specimens tested in terms of stiffness, ultimate strength, and expected mode of failure. The results are discussed and some suggestions are made for improving the design procedures. (C) 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers