Finite Element Modelling of Bolt Shear Connections in Prefabricated Steel Lightweight Aggregate–Concrete Composite Beams

Steel lightweight aggregate–concrete composite beams (SLACCBs) with bolted shear connections provide several advantages, such as reducing the overall self-weight, shortening construction period, and improving structural seismic performance. However, current research on mechanical behavior of is primarily concentrated structures normal concrete (NC), there no investigation focused performance bolt embedded in aggregate (LAC) slabs. Therefore, this paper developed a three-dimensional (3D) numerical model to study properties SLACCBs by utilizing ABAQUS software. Nonlinear geometric effects material nonlinearities were considered finite element (FE) modelling. The accuracy reliability FE modelling initially calibrated validated against push-off tests described literature. Subsequently, basic connection studied compared those NC slab applying verified Meanwhile, strength, density, diameter, tensile strength also investigated using extensive parametric studies. Finally, some design formulae proposed predict strength.