Numerical assessment of post-tensioned slab-edge column connection systems with and without shear cap

Introduction of prestressed concrete slabs based on post-tensioned (PT) method aids in constructing larger spans, more useful floor height, and reduces the total weight of the building. In the present paper, for the first time, simulation of 32 two-way PT slab-edge column connections is performed and verified by some existing experimental results which show good consistency. Finite element method is used to assess the performance of bonded and unbonded slab-column connections and the impact of different parameters on these connections. Parameters such as strand bonding conditions, presence or absence of a shear cap in the area of slab-column connection and the changes of concrete compressive strength are implied in the modeling. The results indicate that the addition of a shear cap increases the flexural capacity, further increases the shear strength and converts the failure mode of connections from shear rigidity to flexural ductility. Besides, the reduction of concrete compressive strength decreases the flexural capacity, further reduces the shear strength of connections and converts the failure mode of connections from flexural ductility to shear rigidity. Comparing the effect of high concrete compressive strengths versus the addition of a shear cap, shows that the latter increases the shear capacity more significantly.