Abstract: In order to optimize the design of FRP/steel T-shaped embedded connection structure, this paper proposes two new design schemes of T-joint embedded dovetail groove connection structure for the first time based on the research in references [1] and [2]: the embedded type and the extended type. In this paper, two types of asymmetric joints were designed and manufactured, and the load-bearing characteristics under tensile and bending load were studied. The initial damage characteristics, crack propagation law and failure mechanism of them were analyzed. Then, in order to further explore their initial damage characteristics under tensile bending load, the simulation calculation and analysis are carried out based on the large finite element calculation software Abaqus. The calculation results are in good agreement with the test results. On this basis, the two joints are simulated and their initial damage characteristics were analyzed. The results show that although the extended scheme has higher connection stiffness, the embedded scheme has higher initial failure strength and better water-tightness.

Key words: asymmetric joint, the embedded type of joint, the extended type of joint, initial damage characteristics