Experimental program on design and application of external retrofit walls for low ductility RC frames

Abstract

External precast shear walls is a new strengthening alternative for vulnerable RC structures. The most popular method for the strengthening of existing structures is the use of infill shear walls. However, it disturbs the occupants, who must vacate the building during strengthening. This is also the case for many other techniques. Recent research in Pamukkale University is focused on the application of external shear walls to seismically vulnerable RC frames. In scope of the research several phases were completed. Frames strengthened by cast-in-place and precast shear walls were tested (2006-2011) in Pamukkale University Earthquake and Structural Technologies Laboratory. The most recent experiments were focused on the two points: 1) Connections between existing frame elements with low strength concrete and external shear walls 2) Connections between external shear wall segments. The paper aims to summarize previous findings on external shear wall strengthened frames and future research on the subject. © 2011 EUCENTRE. All rights reserved.