Study of Complexity of Numerical Models of a Strengthened Timber Beam

Numerical Analysis of Laminated Veneer Lumber Beams Strengthened with Various Carbon Composites

Among the many benefits of implementing numerical analysis on real objects, economic and environmental considerations are likely the most important ones. Nonetheless, it is also crucial to constrain the duration and space necessary for conducting experimental investigations. Although these benefits are clear, the applicability of such models must be appropriately verified. This research subjected validation of numerical models depicting the behavior of unstrengthened and strengthened laminated veneer lumber (LVL) beams. As a reinforcement, a carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheet and laminates were used. Experiments were conducted on full-scale members within the framework of the so-called four-point bending testing method. Numerical simulations were performed using the Abaqus software. Two types of material models were examined for laminated veneer lumber: linearly elastic and linearly elastic-perfectly plastic with Hill's yield criterion. A distinction was made in the material properties of carbon composites based on their location on the height of the cross-section. The outlined numerical models accurately depict the behavior of real structural elements. The precision of predicting load-bearing capacity amounts to a few percent for strengthened beams and a maximum of eleven percent for unstrengthened beams. The relative deviation between numerical and experimental values of bending stiffness was at a maximum of seven percent. Applying the elastic-plastic model enables accurate representation of the load versus deflection relation and the distribution of stress and deformation of strengthened beams. Based on the findings, directives were provided for further optimization of the positioning of composite reinforcement along the span of the beam. Reinforcement design of existing laminated veneer lumber members can be made using presented methodology.

New Advances in Strengthening of Structural Timber

As one of the oldest building materials, wood is still widely used today [...].

Numerical, Theoretical, and Experimental Analysis of LVL-CFRP Sandwich Structure

Optimization of structural elements via composition of different components is a significant scientific and practical point-of-view problem aimed at obtaining more economical and environmentally friendly solutions. This paper presents the results of a static work analysis of small-size laminated veneer lumber (LVL) beams reinforced by a Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) sheet. The nominal dimensions of LVL beams were 45 × 45 × 850 mm, and 0.333- and 0.666-mm thick reinforcement layers were used. The reinforcement was applied on opposite sides of the cross section obtaining a sandwich-type structure. An epoxy resin was used as a bonding layer. The bending tests were conducted in the so-called four-point bending static scheme in edgewise and flatwise conditions. The results of experimental tests confirmed the validity of this combination of materials. The highest load-bearing capacity was obtained for configuration, where CFRP sheets with a thickness of 0.666 mm were placed on the sides of the core, parallel to the direction of loading and the veneer's grain in the core. The increase in this case was up to a maximum of 57% compared to the core alone. The highest bending stiffness increase, 182% compared to the core alone, involves placing two layers of sheets perpendicular to the direction of loading, i.e., on the upper and lower surfaces. The presented novel sandwich structure can be competitive against traditional steel and reinforced concrete elements in civil engineering and can be utilized as beams or slabs.