| Summary: | The work presented in this thesis focus on analysing the structural performance of multi-layered laminated glass places subjected to uniform pressure loading. Numerical simulations using ANSYS finite element software has been performed to analyse the behaviour of laminated glass plates. Theoretical laminated glass beam models that represent the interaction of forces between PVB interlayer and glass have been presented. Based on the formulation of theoretical models, a new modelling technique using shell and link elements has been proposed. The behaviour of glass plate is captured by the shell element and the shearing behaviour of PVB interlayer is simulated by a structure constructed of link elements. The shearing behaviour of PVB interlayer can be modelled as linear, if the shear strain does not reach the non-linear limit. The modelling technique has been applied to model experimental results provided by the Public Services Agency and close agreement of results have been obtained. Parametric studies have been carried out on laminated glass models and discussions have been made. Using two non-dimensional parameters, design equations for 3-ply, 5-ply and 7-ply laminated glass plates have been proposed. For the case of 3-ply laminated glass plates, it is discovered that the design equations with 40MPa and 45MPa design stresses predicted close agreement to experimental results. For the case of 5-ply and 7-ply laminated glass plates. 28MPa and 33MPa design stresses predicted close agreement to experimental results. For samples with standard interlayer thickness, same plate dimensions and glass thickness, laminated glass plates can be stronger than monolithic glass plates. Additionally in most cases, the load bearing capacity of laminated glass plates with more layers is higher or comparable to laminated glass plates with fewer layers. This is caused by the redistribution of bending and membrane stresses due to early or late development of membrane effect.
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