In‐plane quasi‐static cyclic tests of nonstructural lightweight steel drywall partitions for seismic performance evaluation

• Published in: Earthquake engineering & structural dynamics 2018-05, Vol.47 (6), p.1566-1588
• Main Authors: Pali, Tatiana, Macillo, Vincenzo, Terracciano, Maria Teresa, Bucciero, Bianca, Fiorino, Luigi, Landolfo, Raffaele
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Building components; Connecting; Cyclic testing; Drywall; Earthquake damage; Fragility; in‐plane cyclic tests; Lightweight; lightweight steel structures; Limit state design; nonstructural components; Parameters; partition walls; Partitions; Performance evaluation; Repair; Seismic activity; Seismic design; Seismic engineering; Seismic response; Seismology; Sheathing; Steel; Stiffness; Structural members; Tests; Walls; Weight reduction
• ISSN: 0098-8847; 1096-9845
• DOI: 10.1002/eqe.3031

Summary An experimental program was performed for evaluating the seismic response and fragilities of nonstructural lightweight steel drywall partitions, also considering the interaction with structural elements and other nonstructural building components, ie, outdoor façade walls. Therefore, in‐plane quasi‐static reversed cyclic tests were carried out on 8 specimens of indoor partition walls infilled in a frame and on 4 specimens of indoor partition walls connected at its ends with transversal outdoor façade walls. Constructive parameters under investigation include type of connections used for connecting the indoor partition walls to the surrounding elements, stud spacing, type of sheathing panels, and type of jointing finishing. The effect of the constructive parameters on the lateral response in secant stiffness and strength is examined. Furthermore, the main damage phenomena observed during the tests are reported and associated to 3 damage limit states distinguished for the required repair level for the tested partition walls. Fragility curves are used for the experimental assessment of seismic fragility of the tested specimens, in accordance with the interstorey drift limits required by the European code. Finally, the quantitative estimation of the repair action costs starting from the damage observation is also developed. The obtained results could be considered a starting point for developing the in‐plane seismic design assisted by testing of lightweight steel drywall partition walls.