Parametric Analysis of Out-of-Plane Seismic Behavior of Unreinforced Masonry Infill Walls: An Analytical Study

Masonry infill walls are a common technique in reinforced concrete (RC) frames. These elements, defined as non-structural, strongly influence the seismic performance of RC frames and can be responsible for brittle failure mechanisms, such as out-of-plane infill collapse. This paper aims to present the application of an analytical model for evaluating out-of-plane (OOP) lateral behaviour in a comprehensive parametric analysis of the main parameters governing the OOP behaviour of masonry infills. The variation of the geometric and mechanical properties of the masonry, the slenderness and aspect ratio of the infill. The analytical model incorporates vertical and horizontal arch mechanisms, considering the flexibility of the RC frame elements surrounding the panel and considering potential external reinforcement solutions. The reliability of the proposed model was also demonstrated by comparison with experimental results.