Experimental and Finite Element Analysis of Bending Performance of Web-Embedded Double Inverted T-Shaped Steel-Concrete Composite Beams

This study investigates the bending performance of web-embedded double inverted T-shaped steel-concrete composite beams (WDTSCBs) through experimental testing and finite element analysis (FEA). A novel composite beam structure was developed, where double inverted T-shaped steel beams are interconnected by slotted web plates and embedded in concrete flanges, aiming to enhance load-bearing capacity and ductility. Four WDTSCB specimens, utilizing C40 concrete and Q345qB steel, were tested under static loading to analyze failure modes, load-deflection behavior, and crack development. The experimental results were validated by FEA in ABAQUS, achieving an error margin of less than 5%. The findings indicate that WDTSCBs exhibit superior flexural performance compared to traditional composite beams, with higher bending resistance and reduced steel consumption. These results provide valuable insights into the design and optimization of steel-concrete composite structures, promoting their application in civil engineering.