🚀 New Open-Access Paper Published in Materials and Structures The SARCOS project presents its latest research on the finite element modelling of steel–concrete composite slabs incorporating recycled concrete aggregates (RAC), now available in open access.
🔍 What does this paper contribute?
- Advanced nonlinear FE models (ABAQUS) calibrated on 12 full-scale experimental tests
- Explicit modelling of steel–concrete interface behaviour through a cohesive interaction law
- Clear evidence that recycled aggregates, while reducing concrete stiffness, enhance interface adhesion and debonding resistance thanks to increased surface roughness
- A reliable numerical framework that can complement or partially replace costly full-scale testing, supporting sustainable design in line with Eurocode 4
📘 Paper title
Finite element simulation of composite slabs with recycled concrete aggregates: collapse mechanisms and interface behaviour
📖 Materials and Structures (2026) — Open Access: https://doi.org/10.1617/s11527-025-02911-7
