Pushout tests on deconstructable steel-concrete shear connections in sustainable composite beams

This paper presents the results of pushout test of deconstructable clamping connectors which are utilized to connect precast concrete planks and steel beams in a deconstructable composite floor system. A specified turn-of-the-nut rotation was first established to ensure reliable pretension in the bolts. Nine specimens were then tested to study the effects of key parameters, including bolt diameter, reinforcement layout, loading protocol, use of shims and number of cast-in channels. It is shown that the clamping connectors have excellent slip capacity, ductility and energy dissipating capacity. The characteristics of the clamps are compared to steel stud anchors in terms of strength, stiffness and ultimate slip. Design recommendations are also provided to predict the slip and peak strengths of the clamps under monotonic and cyclic loading. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.