Experimental study of deconstructable embedded bolted shear connectors in composite beam subjected to cyclic loading

Bolted shear connectors have recently been introduced and studied as a convenient and demountable alternative for shear studs in steel-concrete composite beams. The major problem of welded studs is their undeconstructability. Bolted shear connectors make it possible to deconstruct and reuse the connection after its service life. In this study, the cyclic behavior of embedded bolted shear connectors in steel-concrete composite beams was investigated. The specimens included prefabricated concrete slabs with a square hole, which was filled with grout after assembling the concrete slab and steel section. Eight specimens were fabricated and tested to examine the effect of the bolt's diameter and strength on the cyclic behavior. To determine its behavior characteristics force-slip curves were applied. Ductility, strength degradation, and energy dissipation were the primary parameters investigated in this study. The results showed that the bolt's diameter and strength significantly influenced the cyclic behavior of composite beams. Increasing the bolt's diameter and strength improved the connection's ductility and energy dissipation. Furthermore, doubling the bolt's cross-section increased the connection's ultimate strength by more than twice.