Shear performance of stud connectors in steel-concrete composite bridges: A review

Abstract

Stud connectors in steel-concrete composite bridges (SCCBs) play an important role in transferring forces and preventing deck separation between steel girders and concrete slabs. Hence, accurately assessing the shear performance of stud connectors is of considerable importance for the design and safety assessment of SCCBs. Currently, many bridge design specifications provide methods to evaluate the static and fatigue performance of stud connectors. However, an increasing amount of scholars are questioning these methods, suggesting that the shear bearing capacities of stud connectors determined based on these specifications may significantly deviate from actual values. Numerous studies have investigated the influencing mechanisms of different parameters on the shear performance of stud connectors; some conflicting views were presented and so an evaluation of all these studies might be necessary to comprehend holistically the present knowledge available. Accordingly, the purpose of this study is to perform a state-of-the-art review on the progress of static and fatigue performance (SFP) of stud connectors in SCCBs. This review summarizes the methods developed to evaluate the SFP of studs in SCCBs, including the static ultimate bearing capacity, static load-lip curve, fatigue life, fatigue slip, and residual strength. Moreover, it discusses the corresponding influencing parameters. This article also presents key findings and explores the gaps and limits in current research on the shear performance of studs in SCCBs. It aims to provide necessary information, enabling researchers and engineers to quickly acquire a deeper understanding of this topic and assisting authorities in making informed decisions regarding bridge design and management.