Seismic Performance of Lightweight Steel Shear Walls With Gypsum Sheathing: Experimental Investigation

Abstract

This study investigates the structural performance of cold-formed steel (CFS) shear walls sheathed with gypsum panels, in accordance with the forthcoming Eurocode 8 seismic design guidelines for ductility class 3 (DC3) buildings. Utilizing a multiscale experimental approach, the research involved material testing, component-level evaluations, and full-scale testing of four shear wall prototypes. These tests aimed to validate the effectiveness of the new prescribed design rules and to observe the failure mechanisms under lateral loads. The study specifically examined various design aspects, including the effects of cyclic loading, screw spacing, and wall aspect ratio. The results demonstrated that the walls consistently failed due to the gypsum sheathing-to-frame screw connections, confirming the intended dissipative behavior. The findings underscore the potential of CFS shear walls with gypsum sheathing to meet the seismic performance requirements set forth in the updated Eurocode, thereby offering a reliable and effective solution for earthquake-resistant construction.