Shear resistance behaviors of a newly puzzle shape of crestbond rib shear connector: An experimental study

Abstract

A newly puzzle shape of crestbond rib shear connector is a type of ductile perfobond rib shear connector. This shear connector has some advantages, including relatively easy rebar installation and cutting, as well as the higher shear resistance strength. Thus, this study proposed a newly puzzle shape of crestbond rib with a "Omega" shape, and its shear resistance behaviors and shear strengths were examined using push-out tests. Five main parameters were considered in the push-out specimens to evaluate the effects of shear resistance parameters such as the dimensions of the crestbond rib, transverse rebars in the crestbond dowel, concrete strength, rebar strength, and dowel action on the shear strength. The shear loading test results were used to compare the changes in the shear behaviors, failure modes, and shear strengths. It was found that the concrete strength and number of transverse rebars in the crestbond rib were significantly related to its shear resistance. After the initial bearing resistance behavior of the concrete dowel, a relative slip occurred in all the specimens. However, its rigid behavior to shear loading decreased the ductility of the shear connection. The cross-sectional area of the crestbond rib was also shown to have a minor effect on the shear resistance of the crestbond rib shear connector. The failure mechanism of the crestbond rib shear connector was complex, and included compression, shear, and tension. As a failure mode, a crack was initiated in the middle of the concrete slab in a vertical direction, and propagated with increasing shear load. Then, horizontal cracks occurred and propagated to the front and rear faces of the specimens. Based on the results of this study, a design shear strength equation was proposed and compared with previously suggested equations.