Discussion of failure criteria and low-cycle fatigue performance of structural glazing connections under various seismic loading scenarios
Year: 2025
Type: editorial
Abstract: In addition to static loads, structural glazing joints in glass and facade construction are often subjected to extraordinary loads such as earthquakes. This study investigates the load-bearing and failure behavior of structural glazing joints under low-cycle fatigue loading to address the current lack of reliable design methods and fatigue life curves (S-N curves) at high load levels. To evaluate the load-bearing behavior under low-cycle fatigue loading, force- and displacement-controlled fatigue tests were performed. To define failure criteria, especially for the displacement-controlled test, various cyclic parameters such as stiffness, dissipated energy density, and loss factor were analyzed. The fundamental parameter behavior exhibited notable similarities between the force- and displacement-controlled tests. Mathematical models derived from force-controlled tests provided failure limits which were applied to displacement-controlled tests to determine fatigue life. The results demonstrated a strong influence of the failure criteria and a strong correlation between load level and cycles to failure, with S-N curves following the standard power law for high-cycle fatigue investigations and achieving high coefficients of determination (R² ≥ 0.95). Key influencing factors, such as frequency and mean stress, significantly impact fatigue performance. A decrease in test frequency corresponded to a reduction in load cycles to failure. Testing under threshold loading conditions (R=0) resulted in an increased number of cycles compared to alternate loading scenarios (R=-1). The findings confirm the predictable failure behavior with cohesive failure mode for the structural glazing joints under seismic low-cycle fatigue loading, providing a foundation for reliable fatigue analysis. While the results are specific to the tested adhesive and joint geometry, they contribute to the development of a robust and economical design methodology for structural glazing joints under seismic conditions, advancing knowledge in glass and facade construction. • Experimental cyclic tests with high load levels on structural glazing joints. • Representation of seismic loading scenarios by force and displacement controlled tests. • Definition of different failure criteria for the displacement controlled tests. • Relevant correlation between the load level and the number of cycles to failure. • Force controlled test results can be used on the conservative side when designing.
Authors: Paul Müller, Christian Schuler, Geralt Siebert
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,540
OpenAlex ID: W4408346546