Finite element analysis on the collapse of infill walls with holes and different length-to-height ratios

Wenchuan earthquake damage survey displayed the major structures of buildings suffered only small damages, but it was common that infill walls suffered heavy damages or even collapse. To study the failure forms and collapse mechanism of infill walls in an earthquake, the influence of opening or length-to-height ratio on shake-resisting capability of filling walls was analyzed, and measures to improve the anti-collapse ability of infill walls were put forwaed. The numerical simulations on collapse process in earthquake were carried out by using ABAQUS software. We used 5 single story and single span models. It is revealed that the rigidity and compressive capacity of infill walls are reduced because of the infill walls with holes and the increases of length-to-height ratios. Adding constructional columns and horizontal beams can ensure structural integrity and improve the anti-collapse ability of the wall.