Numerical Study of RC Beam-Column Joints Using a 4-Node Lattice Element Analysis Method

Abstract

In this study, a 4-node lattice element was formulated based on the general lattice model. The experimental program was conducted to verify the 4-node lattice element analysis. In the experimental program, four kinds of RC beam-column specimens were constructed. Anchorage shapes of beam and bonding interfaces between the reinforcement and concrete in the beam part were used as parameters of the specimen. The material properties of unbonded reinforcement used in the 4-node lattice element analysis were derived from nonlinear fiber-section analysis. The load-displacement hysteresis behavior of the 4-node lattice element analysis results are compared with that of the experimental study. The improved lattice analysis method could be used to predict the hysteresis behavior quicker and more simply. It should now be possible not only to use the prediction of the unbonded reinforcement behavior more accurately, but also to apply nonlinear dynamic analysis to general reinforced concrete structures.