Experimental and numerical study of the behavior of different configurations of reinforced concrete block masonry walls under seismic loads

Reinforced concrete (RC) block masonry walls can be considered as a type of improved masonry suitable for their use as lateral force-resisting members of buildings. However, their performance under seismic loads is uncertain because of the numerous variables involved. Given the limited studies on this topic, this work aimed to deepen the knowledge of this type of structures under seismic loads. To achieve this, a study that combines experimental tests with numerical modelling is addressed. Four full-scale specimens subjected to lateral loads were used for comparison and calibration. Two variables were considered in the study, the spacing of horizontal bed-joint reinforcement bars and the presence of single and double openings. A numerical multilayer shell model was proposed. It revealed the strong dependence of the stiffness and strength of the wall on shear parameters that define the constitutive law of masonry under shear stresses. By properly calibrating these parameters, a high correlation between the experimental results and the numerical predictions was obtained. It remarked the importance of this research for its practical application in the design and analysis of larger structures. • Cyclic load tests on reinforced concrete block masonry walls were presented. • Effects of different experimental configurations were evaluated. • A FE macromodel based on a multi-layer shell formulation was developed. • The model was verified and calibrated against the experimental data. • The model was very sensitive to the shear law of the masonry.