Shear force distribution mechanism of perfobond leiste connectors in joint between corrugated steel web and concrete top slab

Abstract

Compared to composite bridges with flat steel webs (FSWs), the corrugation shape and significant shear deformation of the steel web in composite bridges with corrugated steel webs (CSWs) will influence the distribution and magnitude of the shear force of connectors in the joint between the steel web and concrete slab. However, these effects have not been considered in current design specifications, which may lead to unsafe designs. This paper investigates the shear force distribution mechanism of perfobond leiste (PBL) connectors in the joint between the CSW and concrete top slab in composite bridges with CSWs. The theoretical solution for the shear force of the joint per unit length is firstly derived based on the elastic bending theory considering the shear deformation of the CSW. Then, finite element simulations using hybrid models of solid and spring elements are conducted to further investigate the shear force distribution of PBL connectors and influencing parameters. The results show that the shear deformation of the CSW has a negligible effect on the shear force of the joint per unit length. In contrast to composite bridges with FSWs, the CSW induces sinusoidal variations in the shear force of PBL connectors, which leads to an increase in the shear force of partial PBL connectors. The amplification factor for the shear force increases with the wavelength of the CSW and the shear stiffness of the PBL connector, while it decreases with the increasing dimensions of the steel upper flange, perforated ribs, and hole spacing. Finally, a calculation formula and corresponding procedure are proposed for predicting the shear force of PBL connectors in the joint between the CSW and concrete top slab for composite bridges with CSWs.