A novel finite element formulation for beams with composite cross-section

The developed finite element can be simply used by defining its geometrical characteristics and the inertial properties of the two cross-section׳s elements, together with the interface shear stiffness of the connection system. The proposed finite element is applied for the simulation of some representative cases and the obtained solutions are compared with that provided in literature by theoretical and numerical ones; finally - by exploiting the possibility of accounting for the axial discontinuity of the element - simulation of composite beams allowing the failure of the upper part of the cross-section (typically constituted by a concrete slab) is performed.