Comparison and experimental verification of simplified one-dimensional linear elastic models of multilayer sandwich beams

Abstract

Three analytical one-dimensional linear elastic models of composite laminated beams are considered – composite Bernoulli-Euler beam (BE), composite Timoshenko beam (T) and multilayer sandwich beam model (MS). They are compared with results obtained via finite element method for a two-dimensional model in plane stress state. Overall system stiffness is verified with experimental data obtained for two statical configurations – three-point bending and four-point bending. The first configuration concerned 8 types of three-panel cross-laminated timber (CLT) beams accounting for various materials and thickness of timber panels as well as various materials and thickness of adhesive layer, while the second one concerned 5 types of two-panel aluminium laminated beams accounting for different thickness of adhesive layer. Simplified multilayer sandwich model is found to be in good accordance with FEA results and with experimental data, while simple BE and T models are shown to provide erroneous estimates.