Analytical Model for Load–Slip Relationship of Perfobond Shear Connector Based on Push-Out Test

In composite structures, the perfobond connector is an alternative type of shear connector which consists of a steel plate with a certain number of holes. The load–slip relationship is critical for structural analysis and numerical simulation of composite structures using perfobond connectors. In this study, push-out tests were conducted on 72 specimens to obtain the load–slip behaviors of perfobond connectors. Based on the test results, parametric study was performed to analyze the effects of changing the hole geometry, the concrete strength, the configuration of the rebar in hole, the dimensions of the perfobond rib, and the size of the concrete slab. Furthermore, the characteristics and physical meanings of the load–slip curves were analyzed, and the limits and conditions for theoretical expressions were derived. Finally, an analytical model was proposed to express the load–slip relationship of perfobond connectors covering a wide range of design variables