The effects of steel fibre reinforcement on the strength of shear stud connectors for composite steel-concrete construction

Steel fibre reinforcement has been shown to increase the basic strength of concrete when subjected to compression, tension and shear. The benefits of steel fibre reinforcement would thus also provide benefits to the capacity of shear stud strength in both reinforced concrete and composite slabs when used for composite construction. This paper presents the results of an experimental study whereby push tests were used with varying levels of steel fibre reinforcement. Three push tests were conducted on reinforced concrete slabs and profiled composite slabs with a trapezoidal profile. The fibre factor was varied in these tests to reflect a value of 0, 0.3 and 0.6 %. The experimental results are compared against theoretical models for the prediction of shear stud capacity assuming either stud failure or concrete failure. The results of this study and the implications for the design of steel-concrete composite beams are discussed and recommendations for further research are also given