Abdolreza Ataei - Ph.D. student, Centre for Infrastructure Engineering and Safety, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052. Australia.
Mark A. Bradford - Scientia Professor and Australia Laureate Fellow, Centre for Infrastructure Engineering and Safety, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052 Australia.
Xinpei Liu - Research Associate, Centre for Infrastructure Engineering and Safety, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052 Australia.

This paper presents the results of quasi-static tests conducted on full-scale composite beams as part of a novel deconstructable and sustainable structural system. For this system, precast concrete slabs are attached to a steel beam using tensioned high-strength friction-grip bolts in clearance holes as the elements to provide the shear connection. The precast slabs are made using geopolymer concrete in lieu of concrete made from ordinary Portland cement, whose manufacture is a major contributor to anthropogenic CO2 emissions worldwide, thereby enhancing the low-carbon attributes of the structural system. The test results demonstrate the very significant ductility of the beams, with substantial interface slips being developed and sustained at loads close to the ultimate strength limit state. The tension induced in the bolts provides sufficient frictional resistance between the precast slabs and steel beams to ensure that the composite system has full shear interaction throughout the range of service loading.

bolted shear connectors; geopolymer concrete slabs; deconstructability; composite beam; sustainability