The usability of earthquake resistant steel bars as shear connectors in composite structures

Shear connectors are used to avoid potential slipping between steel and concrete and slipping due to deformations on a concrete plate. Many materials having different shapes and dimensions are tested as shear connectors. In this study, the availability of earthquake resistant steel bars, manufactured the same length as headed studs, is investigated. For this purpose, 4 push-out tests accomplished to the composite beams with profiled steel sheeting, in which earthquake resistant steel bars are used as the shear connector, and 4 push-out tests, in which headed studs are used as the shear connector, are undertaken. In the experimental section, 8 push-out tests performed on 16 slab specimens with different slab height, and different numbers and arrangements of shear connectors. As a result of the tests, it is suggested that earthquake resistant steel can be used as an alternative material for shear connectors. (C) 2014 Sharif University of Technology. All rights reserved.