The main aim of the research effort is to develop rational and reliable methodologies for assessing the seismic safety and performance of masonry infilled RC frames, and develop practical and effective techniques for the seismic retrofit of these structures using conventional as well as innovative materials. To achieve this effort, reliable analysis tools that range from advanced computational models to simple analytical methods will be developed. The project will take advantage of the vast computational resources and experimental facilities provided by the NEES Consortium. The analysis methods and retrofit techniques will be first validated with component tests in Stanford University and medium-scale experiments to be conducted with the NEES Fast Hybrid Test facility at the University of Colorado , Boulder (CU). Final proof-of-concept tests will be conducted on a full-scale three-story RC frame using the NEES Large High Performance Outdoor Shake Table at the University of California , San Diego (UCSD).

1. Assessment Methods
   1. Assessment of Existing Finite Element Modeling Methods
   2. Assessment and Improvement of Existing Simplified Analysis Methods
   3. Development of Advanced Computational Models
   
   
2. Design and Retrofit Methods
   1. Development of Design Methodologies and Performance Criteria
   2. Development and Evaluation of Retrofit Methods
   
   
3. Experimental Validation
   1. Small-Scale Tests on Strengthening Methods (Stanford)
   2. Medium-Scale Tests on Single-Story Frames (CU Boulder)
   3. Large-Scale Tests on Multi-Story Frames (UCSD)