This study examines the seismic performance of a specific prefabrication concept patented in Portugal with the project named “R2UTechnologies Modular Systems”. The design of this system is not conceived from inception to resist large lateral forces. Consequently, the prefabrication industry is prevented from fully exploiting its potential and from expanding into markets located in seismic-prone regions.

The studied building adopts a wall-based structural system with reinforcing bars and dry-bolted connections between structural elements. To assess the system, nonlinear static pushover and nonlinear dynamic analyses were performed on a small-scale building, devised specifically for this thesis. This smaller model, more manageable yet representative of all system characteristics. The results provide insight into the mechanisms governing the seismic behaviour of the proposed wall system. For the full-scale building, only a nonlinear static analysis was conducted to evaluate its seismic performance under different seismicity conditions.

In conclusion, the analyses demonstrate that the lateral capacity of the system is primarily governed by interface sliding, while the shear connections in the vertical interfaces play a secondary role. Despite the prevalence of sliding mechanisms, displacements remain limited, confirming compliance with relevant performance requirements. These findings suggest that the system can achieve satisfactory seismic performance, and highlight avenues for future development, including the optimization of frictional interfaces and the potential implementation of energy-dissipating connections.