Project OP2: Behaviour of Shear Connectors for Sustainable Composite Structures Under Static and Fatigue Loading

This research aims to identify structurally efficient and practical shear connectors for composite structures designed with a focus on sustainability. The effects of different parameters will be explored to better understand the static and fatigue behaviour of shear connectors designed for sustainable construction. The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the performance of demountable shear connectors embedded in concrete when subjected to static and fatigue loading. The cast-in-place shear stud will be used as a benchmark which blind bolt shear connectors will be compared with to determine the feasibility of using this form of connectors in composite construction.

The objectives of this research can be summarised the following main tasks:

• Conduct experimental studies which include:
• Conduct static loading tests on demountable shear connectors to provide additional data on their shear strength, stiffness, and deformation capacity.
• Conduct high-cycle fatigue loading tests on demountable shear connectors to develop of S-N curves.
• Model verification which develop a 3D finite elements model to study the mechanical behaviour of composite beams with bolted shear connectors.
• Perform parametric studies using the finite element method to evaluate the factors that influence static and fatigue strength.
• Provide design guideline and recommendations for strengthening existing composite structures by utilizing blind bolt shear connectors.

Sources of Funding

• Western Sydney University Postgraduate Research Scholarship

Publications

• “Behaviour of Shear Connectors for Sustainable Construction under Static Loading”, 1st International Conference on Structural Engineering Research, Sydney, 2017 (iCSER 2017).