Numerical analysis of glued laminated timber beams reinforced by Vectran fibers

Análise numérica de vigas de madeira laminada colada reforçadas com fibras de Vectran

Abstract

Some factors, such as environmental actions and load increases, can cause a necessity to restore a structural element. An efficient method typically used is to reinforce the structure with a high mechanical property´s material. In this study, a numerical approach of glued laminated timber beams reinforced with the following synthetic fibers: Vectran^®, carbon and glass fibers was developed. Vectran^® fibers have high performance and are employed in various areas, but not yet as a structural reinforcement. The beam models were designed on Ansys software-version 12 and the results were analyzed regarding the maximum stresses and displacements. When compared to unreinforced beam, the fiber reinforcement absorbed a great part of the acting stresses, reducing the tensile stress and the displacement maximum values. Considering mechanical properties and the material cost, Vectran^® fiber is an interesting alternative for structural reinforcement, fitting its mechanical performance at an intermediate level between carbon fiber and glass fiber.

Keywords:
Glued laminated timber; Structural reinforcement; Synthetic fibers; Vectran