This research project will evaluate the lateral load resistance of lightgage steel stud walls in the construction of midrise buildings in seismically active regions of the country. The investigation will utilize both analysis and experimentation to evaluate the shear wall resistance of two actual midrise buildings located in highly seismic regions that were designed with representative lightgage steel stud wall systems. Additionally, the research program will conduct monotonic load deflection tests and pseudodynamic load reversal tests on two types of actual lightgage steel stud wall systems. Determinations of strength, load/deflection characteristics, and failure modes will be made and recommendations for the design and construction of lightgage steel stud wall systems will be provided.
