Ultimate Load of Barrel-Vault Space Trusses Shaped by Post-Tensioning

Abstract

This paper presents the results of nonlinear analysis to predict the ultimate load of a barrel-vault space truss shaped by post-tensioning. Experimental study on shape formation, load tests to determine the ultimate load of the post-tensioned barrel-vault space truss and individual compression tests on members to determine their buckling load have been carried out in previous research. The nonlinear analysis carried out herein uses the reduced stiffness of various members according to member test results to determine the ultimate load behavior of the model barrel-vault space truss. The paper also presents the ultimate load behavior of large-span barrel-vault space trusses, taking into account the buckling of their members. As a result, it is shown that these structures can be used to cover large spans with sufficient structural stiffness. Lastly, some design aid diagrams are proposed.