Dynamic analysis of reinforced concrete frame-wall structures

The nonlinear response and failure mechanism of reinforced concrete frame-wall systems is investigated through the employment of a mathematical model. The mathematical model is composed of two mechanical models: a concentrated spring model used for the flexural behaviour of beam and column type members and a multiple spring model used for the response of the wall system. Both account for inelastic behaviour of reinforced concrete.The mathematical model is applied to a ten-storey frame-wall system. The constituent members are replaced by one of the mechanical models whose stiffness characteristics reflect the inelastic properties and hysteresis tendencies of the member. The resulting equations are solved by a step by step time integration procedure. Computed results are compared with experimental results obtained from a structure tested on the Illinois earthquake simulator. The correlated results are then used to define the significant response characteristics.