Applied Mechanics and Materials Vol. 732

Abstract: In order to develop a constitutive material model and to verify its consistency when implemented in a computational code, it is necessary to understand the material and to carry out a comprehensive experimental analysis. This can be a challenging task in the case of composite materials and structures, such as masonry, when using conventional measurements. Strain gauges and allow recording strains at a limited number of discrete points and do not provide sufficient amount of data, thus increasing the cost of the analysis. From that reason a full-field non-contact measurements, such as Digital Image Correlation (DIC), became very popular and valuable for analysis of structures subjected to mechanical loading and precise detection of the onset of strain localization. The presented study deals with tracking the strain localization using DIC in the case of masonry piers loaded by the combination of bending and compression. In such case the strain localizes into more compliant mortar joints while the complete collapse occurs when the masonry blocks fail to transfer tensile stress due to transversal expansion. The obtained data will be used for the validation of a finite element model to predict the behavior of masonry structures.

Abstract: A series of simple and laminated glass tests were carried out under laboratory conditions at the Klokner Institute. The test specimens comprised panes made from float glass with dimensions of 1.1 x 0.36 m. The paper contains experimentally determined characteristic values of flexural strength and estimated design values related to commonly used glass.

Abstract: The finite element method and Component element method are widely used in modeling nowadays. Also the classical computing models especially discrete computing models give very good results. Often some assumptions must be adopted in the process of creation of computing models especially within creation of bridge computing models. In such a case the experimental tests are needed to verify the validity of adopted assumptions. The presented paper describes the adopted assumptions and methodology of their experimental verification. It mutually compares the experimentally and numerically obtained results and makes findings for practical applications.

Abstract: This contribution is carrying similar title as former published two ones [1,2] , as until today there is some discussion about relationship of numerical simulation a experiment during structure construction,. What is better and what is more trustworthy. Looking at motto we see that any of the separate application cannot fulfill recent requirements for high quality, warranted life time and lower mass of structures together with economic approach (short term of design).

Abstract: Load-bearing capacity of fine grained cement-based composite materials UHPFRC depends on the homogeneity of the steel fiber distribution at cross section. The homogeneity of the steel fiber distribution has significant effect to the mechanical properties of UHPFRC elements, especially at tensile strength in bending. The load-bearing capacity depending on the homogeneity of steel fibers at the permanent formwork slabs made from UHPFRC is shown in this paper.

Abstract: In recent years, the requirements on the plane and space structures have been growing. The essential aim is to minimize weight and increase the strength and carrying capacity of these structures. One of the possible solutions is application of the layered structure composed from the composite materials. These materials represent the most effective utilization of potential possibilities of mass and energy savings not only from material point of view, but also with respect to structure usage. The article presents the Finite element method (FEM) solution of the displacement, velocity and acceleration distributions in the composite plates. The plate is unidirectional composite consisting of carbon fibers embedded in the epoxy matrix. FEM software ANSYS 11.0 has been used for analysis.

Abstract: This article will examine the effect of the knots distribution on strength of glued laminated timber beams. A finite element model was made to simulate glued laminated timber beams with defects (knots) to simulate and predict behavior in areas containing knots while bending. This model was then compared with results from static bending test of glued laminated timber beam. The initial position of the rupture was then compared with FEM model [6], so the influence of knots on strength could be determined.

Abstract: As a preparation for further research of timber this paper was made and the purpose of this paper is to summarize and describe the currently used non-destructive assessment methods of a timber structures used in modern civil engineering. The principle of each method is shortly introduced and the reader is familiarized with tools necessary for the assessment and output parameters provided by the method.

Abstract: This research paper deals with an investigation of the mechanical properties of sandwich structures consisting of High Pressure Laminate facing layers (HPL) and various types of cores that are produced by vacuum bagging technology. These materials are connected with different adhesive layers and quality of connection to individual materials is evaluated. Moreover, prepared sandwich structures are tested in three-point bend. Based on the results, suitable combinations of individual materials are proposed for sandwich structures with regard to the quality of the adhesive bonding.

Abstract: This paper deals about behavior of fiber reinforced cement composite in dependence on the casting direction. Almost fifty concrete prisms of size 400 x 100 x 100 mm were cast; half of these were fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) and the other half was ultra-high performance fiber reinforced concrete (UHPFRC). Approximately one half of both mixtures was cast in horizontal direction and the other half vertically. It was found that the specific fracture energy of horizontally cast prisms was approximately 4,5 times larger for both materials than the vertically cast ones. Ultimate loads of FRC were very similar for both casting directions. Peak loads of the horizontally cast UHPFRC prisms were approximately 3 times larger than the vertically cast ones. This research confirmed that there is significant influence of the casting direction on the fiber reinforced concrete characteristics.