Shear strength of prestressed concrete edge slab–column connections with and without shear stud reinforcement

Abstract

Results are reported of tests to failure on six full-scale unbonded post-tensioned prestressed concrete slab–edge column specimens. The objective is to study experimentally the strength and behaviour of this type of connections. The variables are quantity and distribution of stud shear reinforcement and length of overhang. The relevant design equations suggested by Dilger and Ghali as well as several models by others for predicting the strength of prestressed concrete slab–edge column connections are compared with test results. It is concluded that the ACI and CSA provisions for predicting the strength of such connections are conservative, and that the presence of stud shear reinforcement is a good means of increasing the strength and ductility of this type of connections. Key words: shear strength, flat slabs, prestressed concrete, unbonded tendons, shear reinforcement, design, ductility.