Setup sperimentale per la realizzazione di prove cicliche quasi-statiche su controsoffitti

The seismic response of non-structural components is usually evaluated through shake-table tests, in accordance with ICC-ES AC156 protocol. The aim of shake-table tests is qualifying a product, as the result can be only 'passed' or 'failed'. Conversely, fragility tests have the purpose to establish seismic performance characteristics, i.e. strength degradation, damping, energy dissipation, ductility. An innovative experimental setup for fragility testing of suspended ceiling systems was designed, realized and applied. The setup is a frame structure with rigid floor at which suspended ceilings are attached. Displacement is applied at the suspended ceiling height, according to FEMA461 protocol, to perform cyclic quasi-static tests at increasing amplitude until reaching of collapse. 4 typologies of suspended ceilings were tested: 2 typologies of T-grid ceilings, with different panel weight and 2 typologies of continuous metal ceilings. For each typology, one monotonic and one cyclic test were performed. With the purpose of defining the performance parameters, displacement of significant points and applied load were measured. Both the proposal for the experimental setup and the results from testing are commented in the work.