Edge-laminated Transparent Structural Silicone Adhesive (TSSA) Steel-to-Glass Connections

Abstract

The connections between glass components are very critical aspects of structural glass design. Laminated steel-to-glass connections have recently been developed that combine high strength and transparency. This work focuses on the Transparent Structural Silicone Adhesive (TSSA), produced by Dow Corning. TSSA is typically used for the realization of circular point connections on the glass surface. An alternative approach of using TSSA is considered in this study, by laminating stainless steel connectors on the edge of the glass. These connections are experimentally and numerically investigated. The edge bonded specimens are tested in shear and the stress distribution of the adhesive is analyzed by means of a three-dimensional finite element model. The distribution of stresses in the adhesive is non-linear showing significant stress peaks towards the free edges of the adhesive. A parametric study is conducted to relate the magnitude of the shear stress peaks and bending stresses with the eccentricity of the applied load. The occurrence of failure at lower engineering stresses than the ones recorded for circular point connections is explained using the theory of bending-shear interaction laws. Based on these failure criteria, shear stress peaks that occur due to the eccentricity of the applied load have an important influence on the global resistance of the connection.