Strength of exterior slab–column connections subjected to unbalanced moments

Current design codes do not accurately predict the punching shear strengths of exterior slab–column connections subject to unbalanced moments developed by gravity and lateral loads. In the present study, nonlinear finite element analysis was performed to evaluate the magnitude and distribution of eccentric shear and flexural moments developing at the critical sections of the exterior connections. The results showed that the magnitude and distribution of eccentric shear were different from those used in current design codes. Based on the findings, an improved strength model for exterior slab–column connections was developed. Its validity was verified by comparisons with existing test results.