Assessment of the flexural capacity of composite reinforced concrete beams using experimental tests and finite element analysis

Abstract

One of the main governing matters points in studying the composite reinforced concrete beams (CRC) is the force transmission mechanism at the interface between the concrete and the steel section. In this research, a new connection method for CRC beams consisting of reinforced concrete and steel T-section is studied. In this method, the stirrups are utilized to perform as shear connectors. The experimental part of the study includes studying the flexural behavior of the CRC beam with different degrees of interaction. The theoretical part of the study includes constructing a three-dimensional finite element model using ABAQUS software and validating the model using the experimental results. The model was verified by comparing the critical local and global responses of the CRC beams such as the beam deformation, load at which the steel T-section reached yield point, and concrete cracking and crushing. The model showed a good correlation for the estimation of ultimate load with an accuracy of 105% was achieved.