Numerical modeling the effect of an opening on the behavior of exterior beam-column connections under cyclic loading

For the operation of buildings, using beam web openings near the beam-column connection could be essential. In this current study, the effect of a web opening on the performance of reinforced concrete (RC) exterior Beam-Column connections (BCCs) is being investigated. Ten full-scale BCCs were tested under cyclic loading. A numerical model was developed, which was validated using experimental results. A parametric study was conducted using the numerical model in order to investigate the influence of opening geometry and details in terms of reinforcement around, reinforcement of in the joint core, opening proximity to support, and opening aspect ratio on the performance. The performance of the BCCs was described in terms of maximum resisting load and stiffness degradation. While the failure load of the BCC is significantly reduced the closer the opening to the column and the wider the rectangular opening. Such effects are pronounced in the opening without reinforcement compared to those with additional reinforcements around the opening. Thus, it is essential to take these effects in design provisions.