Longitudinal shear transfer in composite steel truss and concrete (cstc) beams

Abstract The Composite Steel Truss and Concrete (CSTC) beam represents an effective and structurally economical solution which can look back to a long tradition of successful use in Italy. This type of structural element consists of a truss made of structural steel which is partly or entirely encased in in‐situ cast concrete. The shear transfer mechanisms activated in these elements do not rely on dedicated shear connectors but on a mechanical interlocking between the truss and the surrounding concrete. In order to investigate the shear transfer mechanism and to support the development of appropriate design rules, 39 push‐out tests have been planned in accordance with EN 1994‐1‐1 B.2 testing procedure and they are presented in this work. Also, a finite element (FE) model was developed to study in detail the stress and strain field of the specimens. This paper will present the findings of the experimental campaign and numerical studies on the longitudinal shear transfer in CSTC beams.