Non-contact lap splice connections for steel-plate composite walls - to - reinforced concrete structures

Abstract

Non-contact lap splices may be considered for connecting steel-plate composite (SC) walls to conventional reinforced concrete (RC) structures. This connection type is preferred over mechanical splice connections because of perceived construction efficiency. The primary components of the non-contact lap splice connection are the steel rebars, which are fully developed in the RC structure and extended and embedded in SC walls to transfer tensile stresses to the steel faceplates. The structural performance of a non-contact lap splice connection depends on the detailing of rebars (embedment length and location relative of stud anchors) embedded in SC walls, and the design of stud anchors (spacing and size) along the rebar length. This paper presents the results of experimental investigations conducted on SC-to-RC non-contact lap splice connections to evaluate the influence of various design and detailing parameters on structural performance, failure modes, and the ability to develop full-strength connection design. Design recommendations developed previously for SC-to-RC non-contact lap splice connections were reviewed and modified based on the results of experimental investigations.