Numerical analysis and characterization of FRP composite tiled laminates and sandwich panels: a new class of structurally robust building components

Researchers:

• Yichen Zhang
• Jordi Uyttersprot
• Wouter De Corte (supervisor)
• Wim Van Paepegem (supervisor)

Description:

The research aim of this project is to numerically study, model and understand the strength, fracture mechanics and damage tolerance (robustness) of an innovative class of fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite building components: tiled sandwich panels and tiled laminates. In tiled sandwich panels, the fabric layers of the skins are no longer stacked in plane-parallel plies, but are "tiled", like the tiles on a slate-roof are positioned. In this concept, one or more continuous dry fabric layers are draped from the top skin, further down between foam inserts, to the bottom skin, and in this way, connect the top skin with the bottom skin. Components manufactured in this way are damage tolerant by crack containment within one foam “cell” after accidental damage, as required for structural applications by international design codes. Applications may range from bridge deck plates, industrial floors and lock gates to containment walls or blast protections. Besides being the skin material of these sandwich panels, tiled laminates can also be considered as an innovative plate material on their own, allowing for automated production methods, especially for complex double curved surfaces. This extends the application range to other structural applications such as complex roof shells, façade skins, and wind turbine blades.

Funding:

CSC number: 202106090037