Dynamic soil-structure interaction of a shallow founded shear frame and a frame equipped with viscous dampers under seismic loading

•Regular and oil-damped frames dynamically tested in a geotechnical centrifuge.•Base fixity conditions simulated include dry sands and rigid base cases.•SSI in the damped frame is less prevalent compared to the undamped structure.•Comparable energy dissipation between the two frames during moderate shakes on sand.•Reducing base fixity can have adverse effects on energy dissipated by the dampers.•Performance of the damped frame not negatively affected by SSI.