The effects of partial shear connection in the hogging moment regions of composite beams. Part 2: Analytical study

In this paper, the development of an iterative-based analytical model to study the behaviour of composite beams subjected to hogging bending is described. Partial interaction concepts allowing for interface slip are considered, in conjunction with the inherent equilibrium and compatibility principles. The analysis results showed reasonable agreement with the results of the eight experimental beams reported in the earlier companion paper. The full flexural response of the beams including shear connector slip was predicted adequately until failure. The limited experimental data published in the literature was also compared. Favourable comparisons further verified the reliability and robustness of the model. An extensive parametric study was undertaken using the model that has been properly calibrated. In addition, a modified rigid-plastic method is proposed to improve on the approach currently used in practice, and to facilitate the inclusion of partial shear connection in the hogging moment regions of composite structures.