Analytical Study of Timber-Concrete Composite (TCC) Beam Using Different Interlocking Joints

Timber Concrete Composite (TCC) beam is a structural technique widely used for strength and stiffness upgrading of new and existing timber floors, bridges, buildings etc. The main reason for this development is the advantages it offers in terms of higher stiffness, lighter weight, and cost effective compared to RC beams. A TCC beam comprises a concrete slab connected to a timber beam by means of shear connectors. The shear connectors resist the shear and plays a critical role in TCC beam by connecting and introducing a composite action between the upper concrete slab and lower timber beam. Hence to ensure and improve this composite action, a better connection of timber and concrete along with shear connectors is necessary. In this study, a new connection system is introduced in the form of interlockings between timber and concrete. The behavior of TCC beam with interlockings of types rectangular and dovetail joints is analysed using ANSYS 16.1 and the best connection system is selected based upon the load deflection behavior, the relative slip between concrete and timber as well as direct stress on shear connectors of TCC beam. Further TCC beam under longitudinal non-prismatic condition is also studied with the best connection system. From the results obtained it was concluded that TCC beam with dovetail joint of tenon angle 60° is the best joint. Also TCC beam under non prismatic condition with central rise 50 mm showed better performance in terms of load carrying capacity and deflection.