Effect of Confinement on Dynamic Behaviour of Masonry Structure

Abstract

Confined Masonry is a form of construction employed to improve the seismic resistance of masonry structures. Masonry structures are weak to resist the out of plane forces. Out of plane forces are generally applied through perpendicular walls carrying in plane loads. The presence of confinement at such points enhances the structure’s performance. The confinement improves ductility and energy dissipation capabilities of the structures. In this study, effect on performance of confined and unconfined structure due to irregularities, both in plan and elevation, will be studied. There are confinements provided in form of columns and beams. In order to study these effects, two 3-storey structures are analyzed on ETABS. Both the structures are identical with the exception of one being confined. Each structure has eccentric walls as we move up the floors with openings provided for doors and windows. Later, scaled models of these structures will be tested on shaking table under application of seismic loads. The results obtained from the analysis emphasize on the importance of confinements and help in development of a rational method for the verification of structure’s seismic resistance. These results can then be used for academic purposes, as well as a basis for future research and design of