The non-linear response of steel-concrete composite joints

In this paper the experimental results of two beam-column composite connections (one welded and the other bolted) tested under cyclic loading are presented and discussed. The two full-scale specimens were designed as sub-assemblages of a frame to localize the damage at the end of the composite beam in respect of the capacity design, therefore the joint contributed to the deformability of the system essentially in the elastic field. The detail in the area around the column were realized according to the provisions of Eurocode 8 to assure the strength hierarchy by the local mechanisms of the concrete slab. The results highlight the main role of the composite beam in terms of ductility; the rotational capacity and an equivalent plastic hinge length are evaluated.