Abstract
Experimental dynamic tests and numerical simulations of a 3 meters long segment of a footbridge made of polymer composites are presented in the paper. The span-length is reduced, however dimensions of cross-section are the same as the target footbridge. The segment structure is made of sandwich panels, which consist of fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) laminates (skins) and a PET foam (core). The first part of the paper contains description and results of experimental dynamic tests, which were subjected to the structure. The excitations during these tests was realised by a group of people standing or jumping on the structure deck. The obtained results allowed to determine natural frequencies as well as damping ratios. Moreover, cyclic loading was applied to the structure deck to check the possibility of delamination or debonding occurrence, as a result of repetitive dynamic excitations. The second part contains validation of numerical model - results of numerical analysis and its comparison with the experimental ones.
Highlights
Nowadays, requirements for modern structure often force the use of new materials
Segment has the same cross-section as the target footbridge (Fig. 2), its total length is reduced to 3 metres, theoretical length is 2.5 m
Authors focused on analysis of 3 meters long segment of the target footbridge made fully of composite materials
Summary
In order to design structure made from untraditional material, like composites studied in the paper, it is obligatory to make more sophisticated analysis compared to the one made from traditional ones like steel or concrete. It is obligatory to check correctness of assumptions made during numerical analysis by conducting validation test [1,2]. In the paper the investigation of dynamic behaviour of the structure which is thought to be a 3 metres long segment of GFRP composite footbridge is presented (Fig. 1a). The dynamic analysis is crucial for very light footbridges [3]. The main aim of the study, was to construct a single span footbridge made only of composite materials as one element in a single technological process [4,5,6]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
