A mechanical model for connections by adherence for steel–concrete composite beams

This paper discusses new steel–concrete shear connections, known as connections by adherence, whose resistance is due to friction between various interfaces. These connections can be used to connect full-depth precast concrete slab to steel girders of composite bridges. The use of these connections reduces erection time considerably and can consequently be used, for example, when replacing existing bridge decks, where the duration of on-site works has a significant influence on costs and traffic perturbations. The tri-dimensional resistance mechanism of the connections by adherence is first explained. Experimental and numerical results of interfaces loaded in compression and shear, as well as corresponding equations, are then presented. These results are used in a mechanical model that makes it possible to simulate the behaviour of the connections. The model is checked with push-out test results and then used to perform a parametric study. A simplified calculation method, based on the results of this study, is developed and described step-by-step. Important conclusions regarding the design and the behaviour of connections by adherence are finally drawn.