The experimental results of reinforced concrete sandwich beamcolumn joints were studied intensively and finite element method simulation of such joints were performed for the sake of design method.Basic design criterion and computation contents were provided according to failure mode of specimens and other experimental results.And the limits of parameters were proposed based on the analysis of seismic behavior influence factors and comparison of traditional joints and sandwich joints.Hence

formulas of load resistant capacity were acquired by the results of load resistant capacity of specimens and nonlinear finite element method simulation.It is found that three measures should be taken for sandwich joints in order to reach demanded ductility and load resistant capability.Firstly

several parameters should be limited

including shearcompression ratio

axial load ratio

ratio of beam concrete strength to column concrete strength

and minimal amount of transverse reinforcement of joint.Secondly

shear load resistant capacity and axial compressive load resistant capacity should be computed to ensure load resistant capability of joint

and essential strengthen measures could be applied if necessary.Thirdly

appropriate construction details should be taken to avoid reducing of beam bar anchorage capacity.