Numerical Analysis of Steel-Concrete Composite Slabs with Screw Stiffeners

Abstract This paper numerically analyzes the behavior of steel-concrete composite slabs reinforced with screw stiffeners. These slabs are modeled as simply supported one-way slabs subjected to a concentrated load, with screws distributed according to predefined conditions, using the finite element method. The FEM models are implemented using Ansys LS-DYNA software, employing constant stress hexahedron SOLID, BEAM, and SHELL elements to simulate concrete, screws, and steel decking, respectively. The results obtained from the numerical simulation of the composite slabs include bending moment, displacement, strain in steel decking and concrete, and failure mode. The comparison between the experimental data and the obtained results has been shown as a validation of the numerical approach. The comparison indicates that the numerical finite element method models could reliably predict the structural behavior of steel-concrete composite slabs. Additionally, through an extended parametric investigation, the use of screw stiffeners in the composite slabs enhances load-carrying capacity and prevents adverse failure modes. This finding highlights the practical benefits of the shear anchoring technique using screws.