Evaluation of column-beam joints and optimization of reinforcing bars of RC viaducts by FEM

In this study, FEM were performed on L-shaped and T-shaped beam-column joints in order to establish a verification method for joints by the finite element analysis (FEM), and an applicability of the damage indices (the second invariant of deviation, and the strain and normalized cumulative strain energy), which have been shown to be applicable to RC beams, columns, slab members, etc., to the joint was investigated.It was confirmed that damage at corner angles was determined earlier than in other cases.The FEM indicated that the damage indices can be used to evaluate the damage to the joints because the cracking and compression damage of concrete can be generally expressed by dividing the joint into sections.