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Research Paper | Civil Engineering | Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026 | Pages: 2255 - 2259 | India
Influence of Shear Wall Opening Configuration on the Seismic Response of Reinforced Concrete Buildings
Abstract: Reinforced concrete (RC) shear walls play a vital role in improving the seismic performance of multi-storey buildings by providing adequate lateral stiffness and strength against earthquake forces. However, architectural and functional requirements often necessitate openings in shear walls for doors, windows, and service ducts, which influence the overall structural behavior. The present study investigates the effect of vertical and staggered shear wall opening configurations on the seismic response of a G+16 reinforced concrete building using ETABS. Two analytical models with identical geometric and material properties were developed, differing only in the arrangement of shear wall openings. The structures were analysed using Response Spectrum Analysis in accordance with IS 1893 (Part 1):2016. The seismic performance of both models was evaluated by comparing key structural response parameters, including base shear, story displacement, story drift, natural time period, modal participation mass ratio, and spandrel beam shear force. The results indicate that the opening configuration has a significant influence on the dynamic behaviour of the building. The model with vertically aligned openings exhibited comparatively lower story displacement, reduced story drift, and a shorter natural time period, indicating improved lateral stiffness and overall seismic performance. Although both configurations satisfied the code requirements, the staggered opening arrangement resulted in relatively higher deformation and increased demand on the spandrel beams due to discontinuity in the load transfer path. The findings of this study highlight the importance of proper shear wall opening arrangement and provide useful guidance for structural engineers in selecting suitable opening configurations for earthquake-resistant reinforced concrete buildings.
Keywords: Reinforced Concrete Building, Shear Wall Openings, Vertical Openings, Staggered Openings, ETABS, Response Spectrum Analysis, Seismic Performance, Story Drift
How to Cite?: Omraj Nalage, Girish Joshi, "Influence of Shear Wall Opening Configuration on the Seismic Response of Reinforced Concrete Buildings", Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 2255-2259, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26725122137, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26725122137