The degree of composite action derived from the slab/shelf angle system

Abstract

Composite construction is becoming a very popular structural system due to greater economy through the use of composite design in continuous structures. This is the result of an increased strength through continuity and increased stiffness due to composite action. In composite construction, concrete slabs are generally attached to the top of a steel beam by means of shear connectors. As an alternative to this, concrete slabs may be placed on top of shelves attached to the web of the steel beam, thus reducing the overall depth of the structural floor. The aim of this study is to determine analytically and (possibly) experimentally the degree of composite action that may be derived from the slab / shelf angle system. To this end various configurations of shear connection will be investigated.