Structural behaviour of composite concrete-steel slabs

Abstract This paper describes the results of a series of experiments to determine the structural behaviour of composite concrete-steel slabs. The objective of this research is to determine the effect of bonding steel plates underneath slabs using an epoxy. Three variables were included in the investigation; namely the number of plates, plate size and loading patterns. The slabs were subjected to either a single line load at mid-span or a two-line load configuration to simulate a uniformly distributed load. Failure in the slabs occurred either by debonding of the steel plates, flexure or vertical shearing of the composite system. Composite action between the steel plates and the concrete increased the capacity of the slab by 100% - 200%, depending on the number and size of steel plates. Tests to establish the ductility of such slabs are still being pursued