Numerical investigation for cracks of rib-to-deck welded connection at the crossbeam junction in OSD using XFEM: A Crack Propagation Study Based on Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics

The orthotropic steel deck (OSD) is nowadays commonly used due to its advantages, such as its lightweight, short construction time, and high capacity to bear the loads. However, fatigue cracks occur in different welded connections in the OSD. In this study, the rib to-deck-plate connection at the crossbeam conjunction has been analysed. This...

Fracture Mechanics: Application on Orthotropic Steel Decks

In the course of this thesis, a research has been conducted to the application of fracture mechanics on an othotropic steel deck (OSD). Obtaining accurate predictions of crack path and fatigue life assessment were the main objectives for this thesis. As 3D crack propagation modelling in orthotropic steel decks is an arduous task, simpler studies...

Intralaminar Fracture Toughness Characterization of a Torn High Strength Cloth with Dyneema® Fibers

To investigate the damage tolerance of a flexible tsunami barrier, the intralaminar fracture toughness of a plain weave cloth, consisting of Dyneema© fibers and a plastomer resin, has been investigated.<br/>Fracture toughness tests have been performed on center cracked tensile specimens, with varying sizes and initial crack ratios, under quasi...