Exploratory experimental investigations on post-tensioned structural glass beams

This paper discusses two projects on post-tensioned glass beams, performed at EPFL and DTU, respectively. In these projects small scale glass beams (length of 1.5m and 1m) are post-tensioned by means of steel threaded rods tensioned at the beam ends. The purpose of post-tensioning glass beams is to enhance the initial failure stress of the glass and to obtain ductile (post-breakage) performance. From four-point bending tests on the post-tensioned glass beam specimens it is observed that these goals are reached. From the test results it is concluded that post-tensioning glass beams is a feasible and promising concept, which provides enhanced strength and ductile (post-breakage) performance. Since the current investigations are exploratory, the investigated concepts leave unsolved challenges for future research within this field.