Behaviors of box-shape steel reinforced concrete composite beam

Experimental studies on the behaviors of box-shape steel reinforced concrete (SRC) composite beams were conducted. Seven 1:3 scale model composite beams were tested to failure. Each of the beams was simply supported at the ends and two concentrated loads were applied at the one-third span and two-thirds span respectively. Experimental results indicate that the flexural strength can be enhanced when the ratio of flexural reinforcements and flange thickness of the shape steel are increased; the shear strength is enhanced with increase of web thickness of the shape steel. Insignificant effects of concrete in the box-shape steel are found on improving the flexural strength and shear strength of the box-shape SRC composite beams, thus concrete inside the box-shape steel can be saved, and the weight of the SRC beams can be decreased. Shear studs can strengthen the connection and co-work effects between the shape steel and the concrete and enhance the shear strength, but stud design for the composite beams should be further improved. Formulas for flexural and shear strength of the composite beams are proposed, and the calculated results are in good agreement with the experimental results. In general, the box-shape SRC composite beam is a kind of ductile member, and suitable for extensive engineering application.