Macro-models for the in-plane analysis of infilled RC frames: calibration and validation by experimental tests

The paper is devoted to appraise the effectiveness of existing macro-models in predicting the inelastic behaviour of brick-infilled RC frames under earthquake loading. Frame members are idealised as elastic beams provided with hysteretic springs; filler wall is equated to a couple of crushing diagonal struts. Macro-models are validated by comparing the numerical seismic response to experimental time-histories from pseudo-dynamic tests upon one-floor one-bay half-scale specimens. Local damage indices in terms of both measured and computed plastic rotations are correlated to the visible structural damage, being failure attained through succeeding cyclic tests. Substantially, it is concluded that identified global models are able to capture the experimental behaviour.