Strength Evaluation of Bolted Connection in PFRP Structural Member

Abstract

Fiber reinforced plastic structural shapes are readily available in civil engineering applications. Especially, pultruded fiber reinforced plastic is an attractive construction material for structural applications because it can be produced in mass production, and it has good mechanical and chemical properties compared with existing conventional structural materials. To be used in the construction field, connection of the pultruded structural member is unavoidable. Bolted connections may be the most suitable option for civil engineering applications compared with bonded connection. However, bolted connection has disadvantages such as reduction of strength due to bolt holes in the connection. Experimental and analytical studies on the bolted connection of PFRP plated member have been carried out. Four different types of connection distinguished by number and arrangement of bolt holes are investigated. Geometrical test parameters are edge distance, width, and longitudinal and transverse spacing. The effects of the parameters are evaluated and quantified based on the observations, such as failure load and failure mode, obtained from the experiment. In addition to the experimental investigation, analytical study is also conducted to predict the failure load of the member with bolted connection.