Partial Connection Design of Composite Slabs

The partial connection method provides an effective tool for the design of composite slabs with ductile behaviour. Further investigations are being carried out to find out, whether the partial connection method can be improved by using the slip block test instead of, or in addition to, composite slab tests. During the last 15 years, partial connection theory has been the base of all technical approvals for composite slabs in Germany. Partial connection design ensures the beneficial development of new types of composite deck profiles, leading to slabs with improved ductile longitudinal shear behaviour.