Numerical analysis of glass-FRP post-tensioned beams

Abstract

Architectural trends to include transparency in structural systems lead to the implementation, in the last decades, of structural glass load-bearing components able to substitute traditional construction materials like timber, steel, concrete.

In this paper, the structural bending performance of post-tensioned, glass-FRP hybrid beams is evaluated by means of advanced Finite-Element (FE) numerical analyses. To this aim, a concise recapitulation of existing research on several typologies of glass-FRP hybrid beams is first provided. Based on earlier experimental and preliminary FE research outcomes, further detailed discussion is then proposed for the specific concept of glass-FRP post-tensioned glass beams. FE parametric simulations for quasi-static bending loading configuration and room temperature are compared for such systems, typically including a laminated glass (LG) cross-section and an adhesively connected, post-tensioning FRP tendon. As shown, several aspects should be properly taken into account when investigating the overall performance of these systems, as far as both their elastic and post-cracked performance are highly sensitive to various mechanical and geometrical input parameters. A sensitivity FE study is hence presented, aiming to better explore their typical performance.