Mechanical performance of composite steel-concrete beams utilising demountable shear connectors

The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the performance of demountable shear connectors embedded in concrete when subjected to static loading. Due to the lack of detailed research and design rules regarding mechanical behaviour of bolted shear connectors, these connections are rarely used in composite structures. Therefore to achieve a more sustainable future in the building industry, the demountable shear connector must be assessed to determine their shear strength, stiffness, and deformation capacity through static loading. Accordingly, in this study, the mechanical behaviour of composite beams with demountable shear connectors and welded stud connectors were experimentally evaluated using push-out tests. The headed shear stud has been used as a benchmark to determine the feasibility of using demountable connectors in composite construction. Results showed the ultimate and the yield strength of the bolted shear connectors were noticeably higher than welded studs. Hence the tested bolted connections were found to have adequate ultimate strength and ductility to be considered as ductile shear connectors according to Eurocode 4.