Reinforced concrete beam-column joints with lap splices under cyclic loading

Experimental results are presented from tests conducted on reinforced concrete beam-column joints with lap splices under reversed cyclic loading simulating earthquake action. Response curves are compared for twenty-four specimens designed according to Eurocode 2. The main parameters of the investigation are, the geometry of the reinforcing bar extension, the applied axial load (normalized), the available cover over lap splice region extended as length required from Eurocode 2, as well as the shape and the volumetric percentage of the stirrups confining the lap splice zone. The results are evaluated with regards to the load intensity, the energy absorption capacity and the characteristics of the load deflection curve.