The behavior of composite steel joists with various degrees of shear connection is
investigated. The results of eight full-size composite joist tests, conducted as a portion of
the study, are presented. Joist spans range from 24 ft. to 30 ft. and depths from 8 in. to 18
in. Six types of mechanical connectors provide horizontal shear transfer capacity. Steel
deck supported slabs, from 3 in. to 4 in. thick, are used for all tests. The results of the
experiments are used to evaluate the flexural strength and associated failure modes of
partially composite and fully composite joists.
The results of each test are compared to theoretical calculations based on an
ultimate strength flexural model. The joists are classified by how the provided amount of
shear connection compares to the bottom chord yield force and by how the provided
amount of shear connection in conjunction with the top chord capacity compares to the
bottom chord yield force. Behavior typical of each classification is discussed. Correlation
with previously conducted composite joist tests of similar configuration is also discussed.
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