Glass space frames : exploring the implications of glass as a structural component

Abstract

This Dissertation investigates the use of a new type of glass-steel hybrid space frame structure. Glass has more strength than it is given credit for, and its limitations can be overcome by careful design; space frames with 2 or 3-way action have inherent redundancy. The objective of this work is to study a prototype system: a hybrid system which fails in a safe manner, similar to an under-reinforced concrete beam. Constitutive models were compared to laboratory testing on full scale samples. Three main types of tests were established. Setup #I was created to verify multiple components for prototype validation. Setup #2 simulated the loading conditions that a middle module of an assembled structure experiences. Setup#3 simulates the loading conditions that an edge module of an assembled structure experiences. The system was found to exhibit a significant 178% increase in strength due to coupling effects with the steelwork. Predictive qualities to the structural system were also found, which allow the use of non-destructive testing techniques - the controlling value being material stiffness.