Research on fatigue performance and life prediction of steel-concrete composite structural materials

Abstract

Steel-concrete composite structural materials (SCCSM) are extensively used in modern construction due to their high strength, durability, and cost-efficiency. However, accurately predicting their fatigue performance and service life remains challenging, particularly under complex loading conditions. Existing methods for fatigue analysis often fail to address the non-linear mechanical interactions between steel and concrete, leading to imprecise life predictions and inefficient structural designs. To overcome these limitations, this research proposes a comprehensive framework focusing on the mechanical behavior and fatigue performance of SCCSM. The framework integrates advanced modeling techniques, fatigue life prediction models, and experimental validation to account for material heterogeneity and complex loading scenarios. The proposed method utilizes finite element analysis, combined with laboratory testing, to simulate the fatigue behavior of SCCSM under various cyclic loads. It enables accurate identification of critical stress points and material degradation over time. The findings demonstrate that the proposed method significantly enhances the accuracy of fatigue life prediction, improves structural design reliability, and ensures better resource utilization in construction projects. These advancements offer valuable insights for civil engineers and researchers aiming to design safer and longer-lasting composite structures.