Structural and shear-bond performance of composite slabs with deep steel deck: a finite element analysis approach

Composite steel deck slabs are widely used in modern construction due to their cost-effectiveness, light weight, fast installation, and efficient structural performance over long spans. In this system, the steel deck serves as both permanent formwork and tensile reinforcement. The embossments on the surface of the steel deck enhance the mechanical interlock and shear-bond performance between the steel and concrete. The shear-bond behavior of deep composite slabs is complex due to the significant role of deck geometry and interface properties between the deck and the concrete. This paper examines the structural behavior and shear-bond performance of deep composite slabs constructed using a novel 100 mm deep steel deck profile, named MS100, developed by Metal Sartigan. The study aims to quantify structural and shear-bond performances through finite element (FE) modeling. To this end, the FE model incorporating the interface properties between concrete and steel was calibrated using results from previous shear-bond experiments conducted in accordance with the Canadian standard CSSBI S2-17: Criteria for Testing of Composite Slabs. Subsequently, a second series of FE models was developed to investigate composite steel decks with and without embossments under various shear spans. These models were analyzed to determine the shear-bond strength corresponding to each shear span, from which the key shear-bond parameters were calculated. The findings are expected to help assess the effectiveness of deck embossments and optimize their geometry.