Shear test method for characterization of plate connectors applied to concrete-filled steel tube columns and reinforced concrete columns

Abstract Shear connectors are often evaluated using the push test method prescribed by EN 1994-1-1:2004. This method is recommended for analyzing connectors applied to composite steel and concrete beams. However, in situations where connectors are employed in other structural elements, the European standard recommends the use of specific shear tests. This study proposes a test method to characterize plate connectors applied to concrete-filled steel composite (CFSC) columns and reinforced concrete columns. For this purpose, a testing device was developed to simulate the direct introduction of force into the connector. Examples of the application of the testing method on a composite column and a reinforced concrete column with a Crestbond connector are presented. The results obtained were compared with results found in the literature, demonstrating the effectiveness and consistency of the proposed testing method.