The experimental study of glass multilayer columns using digital image correlation

Purpose: The purpose of the research is to study the deformability of glass multilayer columns at the central compression using digital image correlation. It becomes possible to use the method of digital image correlation for the experimental study of load bearing building structures of glass. Design/methodology/approach: The approach which has been used to solve the above problems is to conduct an experimental study of glass columns on central compression, in which deformations were measured using digital image correlation. Findings: The possibility of using load bearing building structures of glass triplex has been discovered. A program of experimental studies was developed. It included the testing of prototype samples on central compression with rigid fastening. On the basis of the obtained results, a graph of dependence of relative deformations on normal tension, graphs of the dependence of the bending of columns on load in different planes, and a modulus of elasticity of triplex glass have been determined. Research limitations/implications: The lack of a calculation methodology and regulatory documents for designing load bearing building structures of triplex glass increases their cost, since each project is individual and requires the experimental research. Practical implications: Using the approaches developed in the paper, the method of digital image correlation, which is to measure deformations when testing glass structures on central compression can be applied. Originality/value: The experimental study is probably the first one in which deformations of glass columns are determined using the method of digital image correlation, so it is new and original. The lack of a calculation methodology and regulatory documents for designing load bearing building structures of triplex glass, increases their cost, since each project is individual and requires the experimental research.