THE SELECTION OF AN ADHESIVE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A GLASS-ADHESIVET-BEAM

The authors have explored the feasibility of constructing composite gl ass-adhesive beams for use in the construction of wall, roof and canop y structures. The beams have a T-shaped cross-section; they are fabric ated from plates of flat architectural glass and an adhesive joint is used to carry shear at the web/flange interface. This paper discusses the selection of suitable adhesives and reports on the performance of five glass T-beams manufactured with a modified epoxy resin. The resul ts show a good correlation with the composite theory presented in the first part of the paper and the authors conclude that it is feasible t o construct useful composite glass-adhesive beams. (C) 1998 Elsevier S cience Ltd. All rights reserved.