Design of Noncontact Lap Splice Connections for C-PSW/CF (SpeedCore)

Abstract

Concrete-filled composite plate shear walls (C-PSW/CF) are an emerging structural system in building construction. The composite wall-to-base connection is a critical component influencing system behavior and design. Different types of composite wall-to-base connections are possible, but the noncontact lap splice connection between the dowel bars of the reinforced concrete (RC) base and the steel faceplates of the composite walls is of interest due to its constructability and potential structural efficiency. This type of wall-to-base connection can govern the lateral resistance of the overall wall system, which may be acceptable for wind loading situations and, depending on ductility, may also be acceptable for seismic loading conditions. This study presents the design and detailing of noncontact dowel bar lap splice connections for composite walls-to-RC foundations or walls. Design parameters include embedment length and arrangement of dowel bars within the composite wall cross section and the interfacial shear strength provided using ties or a combination of ties and stud anchors (shear studs) to transfer forces from the dowel bar to the steel faceplates. Previous recommendations for these parameters, provided in the literature, are used and verified experimentally. Three large-scale specimens with different connection details are designed, constructed, and tested to failure. The experimental results are evaluated, and design recommendations are proposed along with methods to calculate the flexural stiffness and flexural strength of the composite wall-to-base connections.