Quasi-static experimental research on dry-stack masonry infill panel frame

In order to improve the energy dissipation of the masonry in-filled frame structure, while decreasing the stiffening and strengthening effect of the infilling panels, a novel dry-stack masonry in-filled frame was proposed and a series of tests were performed. After evaluating the material parameters of both the masonry panel and frame experimentally, quasi static tests were carried on the dry stack masonry in-filled frame. By comparing the results with the bare frame and mortar in-filled frame, the damage development, failure modes, hysteretic behavior and the response mechanisms were studied. It is concluded that significant energy dissipation in the dry-stack in-filled frame can be obtained while keeping the frame under the elastic stage; the frame stiffening and strengthening effect of the dry-stack in-fill panel is not significant