This research was conducted to study the behavior of exterior concrete beam-column joints with reinforced shape memory alloy (SMA) bars tested under cyclic loading. These bars benefit from superelastic behavior and can stand high loads without residual strains. The experimental part of the study, 8 specimens of exterior concrete beam-column joints were made and tested. Two different types of concrete with 30 and 45 MPa were used. Four specimens contained SMA bars and 4 specimens contained steel bars in beam-column joints. Furthermore, different transverse reinforcements were used in beams investigate the effects of concrete confinement. Specimens were tested under cyclic loading. Results show that SMA bars are capable of recentering to their original shape after standing large displacements. Due to the superelastic behavior of SMA bars, cracks at the joint core vanish under cyclic loading. As the cyclic loading increased, bending failure occurred in the beam outside the joint core. In the analytical parts of the study, specimens were simulated using the SeismoStruct software. Experimental and analytical results showed a satisfactory correlation. Plastic hinge length at the beam joint for specimens with SMA and steel bars was calculated by empirical equations, experimental and analytical results. It was shown that Paulay’s and Priestley’s equations are appropriate for concrete beam-column joints in both types of bars.

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