Mathematical modelling of glass using the finite element method

Abstract

The study deals with glass being used as a structural material. Recent use of structural glass has created a new field of study and a lot of research is currently being undertaken, in which glass is subject to different loading arrangements. This research was motivated by the large discrepancies between the results in the previous experimental studies - differing by twice to three times between specimens subject to the same loading and boundary conditions. This dissertation is based on 'Torsional Strength of Normal Glass' by [Camilleri, 2011]. It aims to model the physical experiments carried out by [Camilleri, 2011] using the finite element method as an alternative approach. The package used for all the modelling in this dissertation is LUSAS Modeller. The objectives of the study are two. Firstly, the understanding of the finite element method as an alternative research approach; including modelling and appropriate data generation. Secondly, conducting an introductory study on the effects of surface imperfections in brittle materials. This is done by inducing an artificial flaw in the models and systematically varying its position, shape, proportions and orientation. The first chapter gives a brief introduction about the subject and outlines the objectives of the research. The second chapter documents related literature. It is divided in three sections; Section 1 gives an overview of 'Torsional Strength of Normal Glass' by [Camilleri 2011], Section 2 explains the behaviour of glass - outlining its physical and chemical properties and Section 3 introduces the finite element method. Chapter 3 explains the modelling process. It conducts convergence studies and provides converged models for fracture analysis. The second part of the study aims to obtain an understanding of the effects of surface imperfections on the failure of glass. Chapter 4 explains the possible failure patterns as effected by the imperfections. Secondly it describes the methodology of introducing flaws and systematically varying their position and intrinsic properties. Results of induced stresses are presented in Chapter 5. Chapter 6 provides an analysis of the results by comparing the different flaw types. The chapter summarises the document and outlines the main conclusions of the study. Ultimately it suggests related further research ..