Analysis of aluminium beam-to-column joints by the component method: Existing studies and research needs

This paper aims at providing an overview on the current state of the art and on possible future developments concerning the component method implementation for the classification of beam-to-column joints belonging to aluminum moment resisting frames. After a brief discussion on the component method theoretical bases, developed in the past to give a feasible calculation procedure for steel joints, recent experimental and numerical studies, carried out for investigating some aluminum components, are presented and discussed. In particular strengths and weaknesses of the current knowledge are put into evidence, also in light of the peculiarities that make aluminum alloys different from steel. The launch of new research fields, aimed at pursuing an update of the current codes dealing with aluminum structures, is therefore proposed.