Nonlinear finite element modelling and parametric study of curved steel–concrete–steel double skin composite panels infilled with ultra-lightweight cement composite

• We develop an efficient FE model to investigate the behaviour of composite panel.
• We propose a simplified connector element for shear stud embedded in concrete.
• Flexural failure, shear failure and three-hinge beam mechanism are investigated.
• Good agreement is achieved between the test and FE results.

Curved steel–concrete–steel (SCS) double skin composite structure with shear connectors has been developed and exhibits versatile potential applications in building and offshore constructions. A novel ultra-lightweight cement composite is used as core material and headed shear studs are welded on steel face plate to achieve the composite action. This paper demonstrates a comprehensive 3D nonlinear finite element (FE) analysis of curved double skin composite panels infilled with ultra-lightweight cement composite (ULCC) under patch load. Nonlinear FE analyses are performed using ABAQUS to study the load deflection behaviour up to the maximum load resistance. A constitutive model for ultra-lightweight cement composite is generated from standard test data and assigned to the concrete materials. A simplified connector element incorporated tension–elongation behaviour is proposed for the shear studs in the curved double skin composite panels. The accuracy of the FE model is validated using experimental results from the literature in terms of load displacement curves, failure modes and maximum load resistance. An extensive parametric study is carried out to identify the effect of the rise-to-span ratio, span-to-thickness ratio, concrete compressive strength and steel yield strength and loading type on the ultimate resistance.