Design of RC beam-column joints under seismic loading - A review

A beam-column joint is a very critical element in reinforced concrete (RC) framed structure where the elements intersect in all three directions. Joints ensure continuity of a structure and transfer forces that are present at the ends of the members. The present provisions in IS 13920:1993 are inadequate, in terms of (i) minimum column width, (ii) column/beam flexure strength ratio, (iii) estimation of shear demand, (iv) assessment of shear strength, design and detailing of shear reinforcement, and needs to be upgraded regarding the beam-column joint under seismic loading. This paper reviews the design procedures for the RC beam-column joints under seismic loading reported in literature, with a special emphasis on three international codes of practice viz. ACI 318M-02, NZS 3101:1995 and prEN 1998-1:2003. It is pointed out that although there is a need for continuing research to resolve various disparities, there is an urgent need to revise IS 13920 suitably, in the interest of structural safety.