Development and validation of a kit for a reinforced load bearing AAC masonry system resisting to seismic actions. Preliminary results

Preliminary results of a theoretical and experimental research aimed at the development and validation of a kit for a reinforced load bearing AAC masonry system resisting to seismic actions are presented.

Experimental specimens were designed by the researchers of the University of Padua based on an analytical model developed for the prediction of the structural behavior of the system. Experimental tests, first on individual constructive details and then on full‐scale complete walls, have been conducted at the Xella's laboratories.

The research is still on‐going. The experimental results obtained up to now are compared with the theoretical predictions. And the potential of the system for the realization of earthquake‐resistant buildings made solely of AAC bearing walls is illustrated.