Component tests and numerical simulations of composite floor systems under progressive collapse

This paper presents experimental and numerical studies on the behaviour of components and composite floor system under column removal scenarios. Shear connectors, double angle-cleat connections and flush end plate connections were extracted from a three-dimensional composite floor system and tested under different loading conditions. The load-displacement curves of these components were compared with the results predicted from existing models. A simplified numerical model was developed to simulate the behaviour of composite floor systems subject to progressive collapse, in which the properties of springs were determined from component tests. The model was then validated against experimental results in terms of load-displacement relationship and failure mode. Finally, parametric studies were conducted to investigate the effects of slab thickness, aspect ratio and reinforcement. Numerical results suggested that the aspect ratio of slabs has the most significant effect on the load capacity of composite floor systems under progressive collapse scenarios.