Shear strength evaluation of headed stud connectors in steel-concrete composite structures with hollow core slabs

Abstract This paper investigates the shear strength of connectors in steel-concrete composite structures, with a specific focus on precast hollow core slabs. Push-out tests were conducted to assess the load-bearing capacity of headed shear studs, welded to the steel profile and embedded in cast-in-place concrete. The experimental analysis was complemented by a numerical study using the finite element method (FEM), allowing for a detailed evaluation of the behavior of the connectors under shear forces. A parametric study was performed to examine the effects of concrete compressive strength and stud yield strength on the shear resistance of the connection. The results demonstrated a good correlation between experimental tests and numerical predictions, though theoretical formulas based on standards tended to overestimate the connector capacity. This research emphasizes the importance of accurately characterizing shear connectors to ensure the proper performance of composite structures, particularly in applications involving hollow core slabs.