Eurocode–based design approach for composite steel–concrete tubular sections under localized compression with consideration of bending behaviour

Mantas Atutis

doi:10.1016/j.compstruct.2026.120438

Eurocode–based design approach for composite steel–concrete tubular sections under localized compression with consideration of bending behaviour

2026-05-09

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Mantas Atutis

DOI：10.1016/j.compstruct.2026.120438

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This paper presents a Eurocode-based design approach for composite steel–concrete tubular members subjected subjected to localized transverse compression and three-point bending, considered as distinct loading cases relevant to practical structural applications. The study examines the interaction mechanisms between the steel shell and the confined concrete core and the resulting transformation of governing failure modes. Square and rectangular hollow sections, including robotic arc-welded box members, are investigated to clarify the structural response under localized crushing and global flexural loading. A mechanical-informed analytical formulation is developed by extending the regulated bearing resistance model with an explicit concrete contribution derived from confinement-enhanced compressive behavior. The approach incorporates the effective load-transfer width and accounts for triaxial stress development in the concrete core and membrane-assisted action in the steel shell, capturing the transition from instability-dominated sidewall deformation to strength-controlled chord face crushing. An experimental program supported by geometrically and materially advanced finite element analyses is conducted to validate the proposed assumptions and to elucidate the coupled load-transfer mechanisms. The results demonstrate that concrete infill significantly enhances bearing resistance by restraining sidewall instability, promoting stress redistribution, and increasing post-yield stiffness. Based on the combined findings, design-oriented expressions consistent with Eurocode principles are proposed to quantify the composite contribution to the local resistance of tubular members.

Keywords:

composite steel–concrete tubular members

localized transverse compression

three-point bending

Eurocode-based design

confinement-enhanced compressive behavior

Eurocode–based design approach for composite steel–concrete tubular sections under localized compression with consideration of bending behaviour

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