POLYMERIC FACADES: ADVANCED COMPOSITES FOR RETROFIT

摘要

Presented in this paper are the findings of a lab-based study undertaken on pultruded GFRP angle sections. Fatigue testing has been conducted to determine the relevant mechanical properties in the secondary (transverse) fibre direction. The concept of using polymeric facades for use in retrofit of building facades is explained, and the benefits established. The connection methodology employed is an area identified as a key target for research. This study using GFRP angle sections is shown to be applicable to the connection types appropriate for pultruded facade panels. Structural testing presented addresses an unavoidable phenomenon that will occur in such a retrofit scheme. It has been established, that at service loading within the range of a standard fatigue performance test for facades, the secondary transverse fibre reinforcement fails in some sections, at the internal root location.