الفهرس 
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Abstract
This dissertation mainly discusses the possibility of improving the nonlinear behavior of the space trusses using top ferrocement slab. The slab compositely works with the top chord members of the space truss to increase the overall strength of the space truss. Using top ferrocement slab may reduce the problem of buckling at the top chords. Consequently, the overall behavior of the space truss will depend on the ductile characteristics of the tension members. Decking plates are used to support the wet concrete in the construction of the composite space trusses. In this research, two different techniques are investigates to create a high level of shear interaction between ferrocement slab and the decking plates. A series of tests are carried out on ferrocement slabs with and without steel sheet. Different numerical models based on finite element method (FEM) are conducted to study the nonlinear behavior of the space trusses and ferrocement slab with and without steel sheet till failure as well. Since there were no established reports or papers discussing the behavior of space trusses with top ferrocement slab it was decided to build an actual scaled model in the laboratory. The experimental model is designed to investigate the nonlinear behavior of a space truss with top ferrocement slab. A new cost efficient connection system is developed and illustrated in the research. The connection system is based on flattening ends of the truss member and inserting the ends to a slotted solid short cylinder element. Then these members were assembled at the nodes by welding. A series of tension and compression testes is conducted on typical truss members to extract their individual behavior. Good agreement was obtained between the experimental work and FEM.