Title: Shear Strength and Hysteretic Behavior of Interior Beam-Column Joints

Author(s): Roberto T. Leon

Publication: Structural Journal

Volume: 87

Issue: 1

Appears on pages(s): 3-11

Keywords: anchorage (structural); beams (supports); columns (supports); earthquake-resistant structures; frames; hysteresis; joints (junctions); reinforced concrete; shear strength; structural design; Design

DOI: 10.14359/3198

Date: 1/1/1990

Abstract:
The analysis and design of reinforced concrete beam-column joints in ductile moment-resisting frames is an area of seismic design where there is still no consensus as to the best design procedures. This is reflected in the differences in the design codes of the U.S., Japan, New Zealand, Europe, and China. The main differences between these codes arise from the level of shear stress allowed in the joint, in the anchorage length requirements for beam and column bars, and in the transverse reinforcement provisions. The key to the design of ductile moment-resisting frames (DMRF) is that the beam-to-column connections, or joints, and columns must remain essentially elastic throughout the load history to insure the lateral stability of the structure. If the joints or columns exhibit stiffness and/or strength deterioration with cycling, collapse due to P-delta effects or to the formation of a story mechanism may be unavoidable.