Effects of partial shear connection on the behavior of semi-continuous composite beams

In this paper, the effects of partial shear connection on the behavior of semi-continuous composite beams were studied numerically using two-dimensional finite element model with plane stress elements. The finite element model takes into account the nonlinearity of the different materials involved. For the shear connectors, a non-linear (shear-slip) relation, drawn from the push-out tests, was used. The accuracy of the proposed finite element model was verified against test results available in the literature. A simplified method to predict load capacity and deflection of the semi-continuous composite beams was also proposed. Based on the results obtained from the finite element analysis, the concept of partial shear connection in the hogging moment regions can be accepted provided that the shear connectors are sufficiently ductile.