Numerical Modelling and Theoretical Analysis of Timber-Concrete Glued-in Threaded Rod Shear Connectors with and without Notches
Keywords:
Finite element, Push-out tests, Timber-concrete composite, Shear connectors, Glued-in rodAbstract
Timber-concrete composite (TCC) structures offer superior bending stiffness, load capacity, and environmental benefits, but shear connector performance—critical for timber-concrete integration—remains a challenge. This study investigated TCC structures using notched shear connectors and glued-in threaded rods (GiRs) via push-out tests, finite element (FE) modelling, and parametric analyses. Twenty-seven specimens were tested, and the validated FE model simulated material nonlinearities and contact. The results showed increased GiR diameter and embedment length enhance load capacity and stiffness (GL series), with diminishing returns beyond a certain embedment. A 100 mm notch size optimized stiffness and load capacity for notched connectors (RG series). Parametric studies highlighted the influence of notch size, GiR embedment length, and diameter on load capacity, stiffness, and ductility. The FE model accurately predicted structural behavior, and theoretical models for load capacity prediction showed 1 to 32% error. This study provides valuable insights for optimizing TCC shear connector design and enhancing structural performance.