A review of research on stainless steel bolted connections

This paper is dedicated to presenting a detailed and comprehensive review of the current state of research on stainless steel bolted connections, with a particular focus on three critical areas: individual bolts, bolted lap shear connections, and bolted beam-to-column connections. By examining these specific aspects, the paper aims to provide a thorough understanding of the behaviour, performance, and design considerations associated with stainless steel bolted connections. The review synthesises findings from experimental studies, analytical approaches, and numerical simulations to offer a holistic perspective on the advancements made in this field. The review is to enhance the understanding of how stainless steel bolted connections can play a pivotal role in supporting the transition towards a built environment that is not only environmentally sustainable but also structurally resilient and adaptable to future challenges. In addition to summarising existing research, this paper identifies several gaps in the current body of knowledge that require further investigation. These gaps include the behaviour of stainless steel bolted connections under extreme loading conditions, their long-term performance in diverse environments, and the development of innovative design methodologies to optimise their efficiency.