Structural Performance of High Strength Self-Compaction Concrete Beams with Perforated Expanded Metal Mesh Shear Connectors

Abstract

This paper displays the results from four shapes of continuous shear connectors made of expanded metal mesh: rectangle, I-shaped, Z-shaped, and truss-shaped. The maximum load that these connectors could withstand under flexural bending was ascertained by testing them through a high-strength concrete beam. Concrete composite units and shear connections are members of a particular class of composite constructions. 24 simply supported beams were tested under two-point bending. A total of 12 beams with one high-strength self-compaction concrete mixture (1:0.91:1.061 ratio mix) and 0.24 water/cement ratio are prepared in one stage in 200 mm x 200 mm x 1200 mm beams, where the results of each group are compared to the other 12 specimens cast in two stages to evaluate the level of composite action between concrete layers due to a change in mechanical properties. The structural behaviour of studied beams, including first crack load, ultimate load, deflection, ductility index, strain characteristics, crack pattern, and failure mode, was investigated. Test results showed beams with shear connectors in a rectangle shape give highlight results in first crack load, ultimate load, deflection at first crack, and ultimate load in addition to the energy absorption (70 kN, 246.66 kN, 1.92 mm,15.41mm, 2124.48 kN.mm, respectively) compared to other types of shear connectors. All beams failed in flexural-shear failure, whereas those with truss connectors exhibited flexural failure. Interface concrete units have influenced all beams that were cast in two stages. Depending on the maximum stress, the types of connectors can be arranged in descending order from rectangle, I, Z, and truss shape.