Comparative experimental investigation on a R/C structure with/without damped braces

This paper presents the results of an experimental campaign carried out on a full-scale reinforced concrete frame structure, before and after a seismic retrofit by a damped bracing system incorporating silicone fluid viscous dissipaters. This experimental enquiry was part of a European Commission-funded Research Program, named “DISPASS”, developed by the pseudodynamic test method implemented at the ELSA laboratory of the Joint Research Center – Ispra. The general characteristics of the test structure, the dissipaters and their assemblage within the protective system are initially described. A special procedure adopted for the design of damped braces, as well as its application and experimental check to this case study are then presented. The main test results are finally reported, together with a performance-based evaluation of the observed response in unprotected and protected conditions.