In-plane cyclic response of low-density AAC URM walls

An experimental campaign aiming at investigating the seismic performance of unreinforced masonry low-density autoclaved aerated concrete blocks is presented. After characterization tests on blocks, mortar and wallettes, in-plane cyclic tests on six full-scale unreinforced masonry piers were performed to obtain a reliable description of the lateral cyclic behavior. Information regarding the displacement capacity and the correlation between experimental and analytical strengths were derived. The results show a limited in-plane displacement capacity of piers, strongly depending on the applied vertical load, and a good correlation between experimental and calculated lateral strengths. At the end of the cyclic tests, the residual vertical strength of some walls was also directly checked.