Effects of Concrete Slab on Ductility of Steel Moment Connections

Abstract

Abstract:The effects of slab on the ductility of steel moment connections representing typical Japanese and US details are investigated based on an interpretation of existing composite connection tests and our own numerical analyses. Different seismic behaviors between typical Japanese and US connections are also investigated. The results show that the presence of slab: increases the beam strength, imposes a constraint near the beam top flange, and, as a consequence, induces concentrated deformation near the beam bottom flange, which in turn reduces the ductility of the connection. The total deformation capacity of the connection depends not only on the beam but also on the connecting column and panel zone. The detrimental slab effects and the relative strength between beams, column, and panel zone should be considered in the seismic design of these connections.