Thermalmechanical response of fire exposed FRP-composites

Purpose and goal

The aim of the project was to determine the mechanical properties of sandwich element at elevated temperature. Temperature dependent material properties shall be used for verification of a numerical model (FE model) of fire exposed sandwich element for ship or building applications. The objective of the project was to determine a limited amount of material properties at elevated temperature. Planed test has been conducted and a virtual test set-up (FE model) has been calibrated against test data.

Results and expected effects

In the project mechanical properties has be determined for sandwich element of fibre reinforced polymers at elevated temperature. However, the project has also gained knowledge of testing and numerical modelling methodology for light weight structures of sandwich elements. Further development of testing and modelling procedures allows weight optimization of fire approved products but also during the development and approval phase of new light weight structures for ship and building applications.

Approach and implementation

The project has been a collaboration project between a technical institute and two companies in the ship building industry and the building industry, respectively. Further, the testing activities and the modelling activities have been interactive. This results in a great knowledge exchange between the knowledge areas.