Effects of Interlayer Weathering on the Structural Behaviour of Laminated Glass Structures

Abstract

Many studies reported in the literature are able to demonstrate significant influence of weathering on physical and mechanical properties of PVB. In this paper, the results of these researches are compared and discussed. The effects of rheological parameters modifications on the coupling capability of laminated glass structural elements and on the mechanical response to loads are then evaluated through numerical analysis. Real structures are often exposed to direct sunlight or to temperature or humidity levels that can induce damage phenomena in the interlayer; the modification of mechanical coupling capability and of adhesion properties of interlayer that effectively take place in laminated glass structures have to be taken into account in the design process as they probably affect the behavior of the structure not only in the serviceability state but especially in the ultimate limit state.