Experimental analysis of perfobond shear connection between steel and lightweight concrete

Abstract

This paper describes the experimental tests carried out at the University of Minho using Perfobond connectors and lightweight concrete. The main objective of these tests is to describe the connection behaviour and to analyse and compare the contribution of the different elements to the slip measured between the steel profile and the concrete slab. In this way, it is possible to define the connection ductility. The test configuration follows some of the EC4 recommendations and repeats some dispositions referred to by Oguejiofor and Ferreira. The parameters under study are the concrete strength, the reinforcement disposition and the Perfobond rib existence and spacing of holes. An important comparison with the experimental results achieved by different authors using normal weight concrete may then be established.