Analytical design model for seismic shear strength of beam-column joints in reinforced concrete buildings

An analytical expression suitable for routine design use developed to estimate the seismic shear strength of the joint cores in reinforced concrete beam-column connections is presented in this paper. The model is a simplification of an iterative nonlinear model previously developed to establish the relationship between the average shear stresses and strains of the joint. The model predictions are verified utilizing experimental measurements of a large number of tests carried-out all over the world and covered a wide range of parameters affecting the joint behavior. The model found to adequately predict the nominal shear stresses of interior and exterior joints cast from normal and high strength concrete. The joint nominal shear stresses calculated using the suggested model show better correlation with test results than the current ACI and New Zealand codes of practice especially for high strength concrete joint.