Static Behaviour of Multi-material Connections

The principal objective of this research project is to evaluate the design methods for connections of steel to aluminium and steel to glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP). Multi-material connection calls on innovative techniques that are not fully understood. There are only few studies available on multi-materials connections and there are no clear guidelines on how to design them, especially when a combination of bolting and epoxy bonding is planned. Through experimental studies, this research work aims to provide directions on the static behaviour of multi-material joint in shear for bridges as well as any heavy construction works.