Macroscopic modeling of reinforced concrete joints: Application to thermal break elements subject to earthquake loadings

•Nonlinear behavior of thermal break joint is identified by static test and FE model.•We developed a new model based on macro-element framework for junction’s behavior.•Numerical model is validated by static and pseudo-dynamic tests.

This paper focuses on the development and the identification procedure of a new model for reinforced concrete joint elements subject to earthquake loadings. Based on the macro-elements concept framework, thermodynamics equations are derived to express robust constitutive equations which are able to simulate different kinds of wall-slab junction. The particular case-study of thermal break elements used for sustainable buildings is explored.