In-Plane Seismic Response of a Glazed Curtain Wall: Full-Scale Laboratory Test and Non-Linear Modelling

Abstract

Glass facades are one of the most used building envelope systems in contemporary architecture. Their increasing applications are basically driven by the research of aesthetic quality, transparency and natural illumination, which raises energy efficiency of buildings. However, after recent earthquakes, buildings designed by current seismic codes often presented the structural part completely intact, conversely several damages to non-structural components. Among the latter, the fall from a height of facade components, such as sharp pieces of glass or aluminum, cannot be overlooked. They, in fact, could represent a threat for occupant and pedestrian safety, as well as a significant economic loss due to downtime and their restoration or replacement. The present paper describes a cyclic experimental test performed at the Construction Technologies Institute (ITC) of the Italian National Research Council (CNR) for seismic performance assessment of a full-scale aluminum-glass façade, currently available on the market. A nonlinear finite element model has been calibrated according to experimental results. Finally, an analytical procedure to simulate load-displacement relationship has been provided. This work aims at enhancing the knowledge about the experimental assessment of seismic performance of glazed systems and eventually suggesting improvements or changes in the code approaches in order to reduce the potential risks related to their damages during earthquakes.

Structural Health Monitoring for Prefabricated Building Envelope under Stress Tests

“…Force washers-The curtain wall façade relies on precisely torqued screws within a bracket system, which is essential for accurate positioning and optimal performance [36,37]. Therefore, an issue that could affect the life cycle of a structure could be bolt anomalies.…”