Transparency in structural glass systems via mechanical, adhesive and laminated point fixings - Existing research and developments

The consistent architectural transparency demand in buildings is highly promoting the structural use of glass, in combination or to replace load-bearing components made of traditional constructional materials. Despite its huge application in facades, roofs, envelopes, frame components, however, glass still represents a rather innovative and not well-known material, requiring specific design conceptsm and further extended studies, toward the fulfillme nt of safe design requirements. A key role in glass systems and assemblies involving multiple components is given to connections. Major issues in their design, consequently, arise from restraining single glazing elements, as well as from ensuring their mechanical interaction with other constructional systems, as a part of full 3D buildings, including several materials, and various loading/boundary conditions. In this paper, an overview of typical connection types in use for glass systems is presented, with special consideration for mechanical, adhesive, and laminated adhesive connections, giving evidence of their typical applications, evolution, current design issues. Existing research and major projects are also discussed, both at the material/component level as well as at the assembly level.