Low velocity impact performance investigation on square hollow glass columns via full-scale experiments and Finite Element analyses

Taking advantage of two full-scale experimental tests carried out on square hollow glass columns under low velocity impacts, the paper aims to further assess via Finite Element models the structural performance of such structural systems. In them, the resisting cross-section consists of four adhesively bonded laminated glass panes. Adhesive joints are also used for the connection between glass columns and top/bottom restraints. As a result, careful consideration in the analysis and design of these innovative systems is required, to guarantee appropriate fail-safe design principles for a typically tensile brittle material, as well as to account for possible accidental or exceptional loading conditions. Simplified but computationally efficient FE models are validated in the paper towards the available full-scale test results. Key aspects in the observed overall performances under low velocity impact are then emphasized, with careful consideration for several loading configurations, including variations in the release distance for the impacting mass as well as in the type of impact (hard/soft body). In conclusion, a FE sensitivity analysis is also carried out, giving preliminary evidence of the effects of some main input parameters on the overall performance of the examined systems, including possible localized damage in glass, as well as geometrical and mechanical features in the column restraints.