Seismic behaviour of a reinforced concrete frame strengthened with CLT panels

This master thesis investigates the application of CLT panels as a seismic reinforcement solution for small existing reinforced concrete buildings that, in the past years, were constructed without following the current seismic design regulations. Through modelling phases conducted on the software SAP2000, I calculated the improvement that it can bring to the structure. This solution is considered innovative thanks to the type of connectors used to install the reinforcement; the connection is achieved through RING that Rothoblaas srl developed. The implementation method of these connectors will improve the velocity and simplicity of the installation process offering an alternative to the traditional solutions currently present on the market. The main section of this master thesis focuses on the modelling of the seismic reinforcements. A detailed improvement of all the critical issues of the initial model was carried out, bringing solutions for the creation of the subsequent model. Once the correct behaviour of each element present in the system was achieved, it was possible to estimate the lateral force absorbed by a single-story panel anchored to a reinforced concrete frame. After completing the study of a single cell, the same process was carried out to extend the reinforcement system to a two-story element. The analysis again reported, after the refinement of the model, a behaviour consistent with what was expected. The final chapter focuses on the application of the two-storey seismic reinforcement to a real reinforced concrete structure designed without the use of seismic codes. This process takes place through the preliminary creation of a phenomenological model that simulates the behaviour of the refined model. The final analysis is cantered on the study of the structural benefits that these reinforcements bring to the structure, placed in the four different seismic zones to have a wide spectrum of the final results.