Advanced Evaluation of Structural Sealant Glazing Systems by a New System Test Approach

Abstract

More information about the capability and especially about the durability of structural sealant glazing (SSG) systems are needed. To make a contribution to unanswered questions, a suitable system evaluation test is necessary. The basis for such a test is a load function, which accounts for the decisive loads SSG systems are exposed to during their working life. This paper proposes a general load function for standard SSG systems at central German locations for accelerated durability tests. Decisive loads are determined and different SSG construction types defined. The performance of these SSG systems under exposure to external loads and to a dynamic pendulum impact is investigated via finite element analyses using a hyperelastic material model. The external loads are applied separately and superimposed. Compression, tensile, and shear deformations of the sealant are determined. It is found that the sealant is subjected to normal and shear stresses simultaneously. The requirements for a representative specimen are derived. The results will be taken as basics for the development and the construction of a test facility to evaluate the durability of structural sealant glazing systems.