Comparative performance of channel and angle shear connectors in high strength concrete composites: an experimental study

Abstract

Structural performance of steel-concrete composite structures relies deeply on the characteristics of the shear connectors. Recently, great attention has been focused on the implementation of C-shaped connectors due to numerous advantages when used in composite beams. However, very little information is available in regard to the response of such connectors when embedded in the high strength concrete (HSC). To address this research gap, sixteen experiments on push-out specimens were conducted to compare the performance of channel and angle shear connectors embedded in HSC. The shear resistance and ductility of the connectors were primarily investigated by applying static and cyclic loadings. Results were also compared with the cases when using normal reinforced concrete. Furthermore, the evaluation of the available equations suggested by the American and Canadian codes for estimating these connectors' capacities when using HSC was carried out. In general, channel connectors exhibited 6.8-30.1% more shear strength than those of angle under monotonic loading, and up to 18.5% more when subjected to cyclic loading. Angle connectors were also less ductile than channel connectors and did not satisfy the ductility criteria specified in the codes' requirements. Connector fracture mode of failure was recorded for both connector types.