Confined hollow concrete block masonry buildings: An experimental approach for vulnerability assessment

This paper presents experimental study on the response of a sustainable structure 3.65 x3.05x3.35 m, made with confined hollow concrete block masonry (CHCBM). The model was tested under quasi-static cyclic test to assess the response against seismic load and to determine the potential vulnerability. Based on test data, envelope curves and bilinear idealized curves were drawn according to both Magenes–Calvi and Elnashai methods. Different performance levels i.e. Immediate Occupancy (IO), Life Safety (LS) and Collapse Prevention (CP) were evaluated based on both methods. Damage pattern and force-deformation behavior of CHCBM building was compared with models of the similar configuration and loading conditions. Similarly values of Response modification factor (R), Displacement Ductility (µD) and Displacement amplification factor (Cd) were calculated and compared with the previously tested models and it confirmed that CHCBM building was ductile and structurally integrated under earthquake loading.