The work described above was not directly financed by a single organization or over the course of a single grant, but the information was gathered over years of industry-sponsored research. To that end, the authors thank their sponsors from over the last decade and are grateful to work in a rapidly evolving industry.

1. Fabricating the testing specimen
<ol>
	<li>Select the discrete or continuous shear connector to test and adhere to the dimensions of the specimen indicated in Figure 4. Modify the dimensions to the test edge distance clearances if needed by changing the edge distance for the connector. 
	NOTE: Generally, adhering to the manufacturer&#39;s guidelines is important, though this test may be used to develop these guidelines. The concrete and insulation wythe dimensions will be dictated by the connector of interest. The mechanical properties from the test are only valid for this specific combination of wythe dimensions, concrete strength, insulation density and type, and connector.</li>
	<li>Indicate the target compressive strength of the concrete representative of the design situation of interest. If trying to model full-scale testing results, ensure that the concrete strength is the same as that of the full-scale specimen or the intended design at the time of testing. If targeting a certain scenario, like the minimum strength for the lifting of the panel, perform the test at that strength.</li>
	<li>Fabricate the concrete formwork using either a vertical or horizontal layout of the concrete layers. Ensure that the testing matches the construction style so that the installation of the connectors matches the in-field situation. 
	NOTE: Most in-service ICSWPs are fabricated with a horizontal layout of each layer.</li>
	<li>Perforate the foam insulation (for pin-style ties) or orient the insulation pieces (for seam-installed ties) and place the connectors at the locations indicated in the standard drawings provided by the manufacturer. Place the connectors using the orientation that the testing facility desires to gather the properties (e.g., a 0&#176; or 90&#176;-or other-angle to the strong axis and the applied load). 
	NOTE: The installation of the connectors should be as indicated by the manufacturer/supplier unless installation is a testing variable of interest.</li>
	<li>Place the first steel reinforcement layer in the forms to prevent the specimen from brittle failure if the concrete pieces crack during handling or testing. 
	NOTE: As the specimens rarely crack due to applied loads, mild reinforcement is not thought to be necessary unless it is expected to participate in the bond of the connector to the concrete. Figure 5 shows the organization of steps 1.5-1.14 through the process.</li>
	<li>If all the layers of concrete cannot be placed in a timely manner prior to the initial set of the concrete, cast the layers a minimum of 3 h apart or according to the connector manufacturer&#39;s recommendations. 
	NOTE: Steps 1.7-1.14 indicate consecutive concrete placement.</li>
	<li>Pour the fresh concrete into the forms and vibrate adequately to prevent the formation of large air voids in the concrete or the poor compaction of particles.</li>
	<li>Place the first insulation layer containing the connectors or push them into the foam, as appropriate. Place the insulation layer so that it makes contact with the fresh concrete. To ensure the concrete is consolidated around the connectors, vibrate the connector with an internal concrete vibrator at 12,000 vibrations/min, unless otherwise recommended by the connector&#39;s manufacturer. 
	NOTE: Vibrating for 2-5 s is enough to ensure consolidation around the connectors.</li>
	<li>Place a 1 ton capacity (or stronger depending on the specimen&#39;s final weight) lifting anchor in the middle layer of the concrete for ease of handling.</li>
	<li>Place the second steel reinforcement layer in the forms in the center of the center wythe.</li>
	<li>Pour the second layer of fresh concrete into the forms and adequately consolidate the concrete as described above.</li>
	<li>Place the second insulation layer containing the connectors or install them into the foam, as described in step 1.4. Carefully ensure that the concrete is consolidated around the connectors.</li>
	<li>Place the third steel reinforcement layer in the forms at the center of the third concrete layer.</li>
	<li>Pour the third and final layer of fresh concrete into the forms and vibrate adequately.</li>
	<li>Make concrete cylinders for each concrete used in the construction of the specimens for the purpose of compression strength documentation. 
	NOTE: This step may be completed at any time during the construction of the specimens but is recommended when halfway through the placement of a given batch. The cylinder preparation and field curing should follow ASTM C3121.</li>
	<li>Cure the specimens in a temperature-controlled environment until the concrete has reached the desired strength. Take the specimens out of the forms once the concrete has hardened adequately for the lifting hardware.</li>
</ol>
2. Testing the double-shear specimen
NOTE: Figure 6 shows a representative layout of the test specimen ready to be tested (ratchet strap not pictured).
<ol>
	<li>Take the specimen to the laboratory for sampling when the concrete used to fabricate the specimens has reached the desired strength. 
	NOTE: Compressive strength testing should follow ASTM C3922. The room temperature should remain relatively constant during the physical act of testing, with the temperature suggested to be 25 &#176;C &#177; 5 &#176;C, and during the testing and storing of the specimens. The testing temperature range is not intended to be rigorously controlled as the properties of the materials involved should not vary significantly with typical room temperatures.</li>
	<li>Place two 3 mm x 100 mm x 600 mm polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) pad strips at the bottom of the outer concrete wythes to minimize friction during testing.</li>
	<li>Set the specimen under the loading frame with the middle concrete layer centered under the loading apparatus. Use a hydraulic ram or a large universal testing machine to apply loading at the top of the middle wythe, taking care to spread the load out with a bearing plate that is sufficiently large to prevent a bearing failure for the expected loads.</li>
	<li>Attach the steel angle to the middle wythe with a concrete or masonry screw. Create a separation of at least 5 mm between the steel angle and the concrete surface using steel or plastic washers to prevent the angle from otherwise interacting with the specimen (Figure 6).</li>
	<li>Attach the displacement sensors to the two exterior wythes, on opposite sides of the specimen (four in total), to measure the movement of the steel angle relative to their fixed position on the exterior wythe. 
	NOTE: The recommended displacement sensors are linear variable differential transducers or potentiometers. Sensors should always be stored in a dry case that is free of dust, moisture, and magnetic effects to prevent the loss of calibration. Analog dial gauges are not recommended.</li>
	<li>Place a 50 mm wide nylon strap loosely around the upper part of the specimen to ensure that an unexpected brittle connector break will not cause any damage to the surroundings, including harming the technician and the sensors. Ensure that the strap is loose enough to not interfere with the specimen displacement, as shown in Figure 7. 
	NOTE: The strap will prevent the wythes from complete separation and facilitate the removal of the specimen after failure even if the wythes are no longer separated. However, this step (step 2.6) is optional.</li>
	<li>Place the load cell centered on top of the middle wythe, sandwiched in between two 20 mm x 150 mm x 150 mm steel plates. Ensure that the steel plates do not overhang the center wythe so as not to interfere with the insulation during the deformation of the specimen.</li>
	<li>Plug the load and displacement sensors into the data acquisition system (DAQ).</li>
	<li>Start the data collection using a sampling rate of at least 10 Hz to ensure the load and displacement are recorded properly.</li>
	<li>Load the specimen in the center wythe until the maximum realistic displacement has been reached and the strength has dropped substantially; after 50% of the load has been lost, stopping the test is recommended, although this is arbitrary. If additional information along the descending branch is desired, use any desired deformation. Apply loading in a monotonic, quasi-static fashion that is fast enough that the connector and concrete creep does not interfere with the test results but not so fast that it can no longer be considered static, unless a high load rate is the testing variable of interest. 
	NOTE: This would indicate that the test should take in the order of 5 min to perhaps several hours. Adequate results have been found using a hydraulic hand pump with a test duration in the order of 5-10 min.</li>
	<li>Stop the data acquisition and retract the load application apparatus to the original position.</li>
	<li>Remove all the sensors and store them in a safe place, as indicated above.</li>
	<li>Move the tested specimen to a clean area and separate the three concrete layers to identify the type of failure: concrete breakout, connector shear failure, or other. Record the failure mode, the quality of the insulation bond, and any other pertinent visual information. Remember to take photographs.</li>
</ol>
3. Analyzing the data and reporting the results
NOTE: This section describes the data analysis to assess several engineering properties that have been used in the literature. Other engineering properties may be of interest, and the data&#39;s usefulness is not limited to the properties below.
<ol>
	<li>Transfer the data files resulting from testing from the DAQ to the computer/folder where the data analysis is performed.</li>
	<li>Plot the average of the four displacement sensors on the abscissa with the connector load on the ordinate (defined as the measured load divided by the number of connectors). 
	NOTE: The user of the experimental method must review the data for any faulty sensors or unreliable measurements prior to averaging and reporting them.</li>
	<li>Find the maximum load and its corresponding displacement using the appropriate function of the data analysis software and store these values as Fu and &#948;u,&#160;respectively.</li>
	<li>Divide the maximum load by 2 to obtain the half-maximum force, F0.5Fu, and find its corresponding displacement &#948;0.5.</li>
	<li>Find the elastic stiffness (K0.5Fu) of the connector by dividing the half-maximum force, F0.5Fu, by the displacement at the half-maximum force, &#948;0.5. If the F0.5Fu&#160;is not in the generally elastic portion of the test, select a lower load that is obviously in the region and report the number. If a lower value is used, be sure to document the fraction of Fu and the corresponding magnitude of force. 
	NOTE: Currently, the end of the K0.5Fu&#160;line is used by some designers as an upper limit for service forces in the connector.</li>
	<li>Report the average results of five samples for each connector brand, type, or concrete strength sampled. 
	NOTE: The reported results are valid only for the specific combination of concrete wythe, insulation wythe, concrete strength, and connector selected.</li>
</ol>

<ol>
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K., Culp, T. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+new+structurally+and+thermally+efficient+precast+sandwich+panel+system.">A new structurally and thermally efficient precast sandwich panel system.</a> PCI journal. 39 (4), 90-101 (1994).</li><li>Frankl, B., Lucier, G., Rizkalla, S., Blaszak, G., Harmon, T. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Structural+behavior+of+insulated+prestressed+concrete+sandwich+panels+reinforced+with+FRP+grid.">Structural behavior of insulated prestressed concrete sandwich panels reinforced with FRP grid.</a> Proceedings of the Fourth International Conference on FRP Composites in Civil Engineering (CICE2008). 2224, (2008).</li><li>Naito, C., Hoemann, J., Beacraft, M., Bewick, B. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Performance+and+characterization+of+shear+ties+for+use+in+insulated+precast+concrete+sandwich+wall+panels.">Performance and characterization of shear ties for use in insulated precast concrete sandwich wall panels.</a> Journal of Structural Engineering. 138 (1), 52-61 (2012).</li><li>Tomlinson, D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=.">.</a> Behaviour of partially composite precast concrete sandwich panels under flexural and axial loads. , (2015).</li><li>. AC320 - Fiber-reinforced Polymer Composite or Unreinforced Polymer Connectors Anchored in Concrete Available from: <a target="_blank" href="https://shop.iccsafe.org/es-acceptance-criteria/ac320-fiber-reinforced-polymer-composite-or-unreinforced-polymer-connectors-anchored-in-concrete-approved-oct-2015-editorially-revised-sept-2017-pdf-download.html">https://shop.iccsafe.org/es-acceptance-criteria/ac320-fiber-reinforced-polymer-composite-or-unreinforced-polymer-connectors-anchored-in-concrete-approved-oct-2015-editorially-revised-sept-2017-pdf-download.html</a> (2015)</li><li>. Developing a General Methodology for Evaluating Composite Action in Insulated Wall Panels. Report to PCI. Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute Available from: <a target="_blank" href="https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cee_facpub/3531">https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cee_facpub/3531</a> (2017)</li><li>Gombeda, M. J., Naito, C. J., Quiel, S. 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J., Naito, C. J., Quiel, S. E. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Flexural+performance+of+precast+concrete+insulated+wall+panels+with+various+configurations+of+ductile+shear+ties.">Flexural performance of precast concrete insulated wall panels with various configurations of ductile shear ties.</a> Journal of Building Engineering. 33, 101574 (2021).</li><li>Bai, F., Davidson, J. S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Composite+beam+theory+for+pretensioned+concrete+structures+with+solutions+to+transfer+length+and+immediate+prestress+losses.">Composite beam theory for pretensioned concrete structures with solutions to transfer length and immediate prestress losses.</a> Engineering Structures. 126, 739-758 (2016).</li><li>Cox, B., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Lumped+GFRP+star+connector+system+for+partial+composite+action+in+insulated+precast+concrete+sandwich+panels.">Lumped GFRP star connector system for partial composite action in insulated precast concrete sandwich panels.</a> Composite Structures. 229, 111465 (2019).</li><li>Pozo, F. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=.">.</a> On thermal bowing of concrete sandwich wall panels with flexible shear connectors. , (2018).</li><li>ASTM International. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Standard+practice+for+making+and+curing+concrete+test+specimens+in+the+field.">Standard practice for making and curing concrete test specimens in the field.</a> ASTM International. , (2019).</li><li>ASTM International. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Standard+test+method+for+compressive+strength+of+cylindrical+concrete+specimens.">Standard test method for compressive strength of cylindrical concrete specimens.</a> ASTM International. , (2018).</li><li>Pozo-Lora, F., Maguire, M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Thermal+bowing+of+concrete+sandwich+panels+with+flexible+shear+connectors.">Thermal bowing of concrete sandwich panels with flexible shear connectors.</a> Journal of Building Engineering. 29, 101124 (2020).</li><li>Al-Rubaye, S., Sorensen, T., Thomas, R. J., Maguire, M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Generalized+beam-spring+model+for+predicting+elastic+behavior+of+partially+composite+concrete+sandwich+wall+panels.">Generalized beam-spring model for predicting elastic behavior of partially composite concrete sandwich wall panels.</a> Engineering Structures. 198, 109533 (2019).</li><li>Losch, E. D., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=State+of+the+art+of+precast/prestressed+concrete+sandwich+wall+panels.">State of the art of precast/prestressed concrete sandwich wall panels.</a> PCI Journal. 56 (2), 131-176 (2011).</li><li>Al-Rubaye, S., Sorensen, T., Maguire, M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Iterative+and+simplified+sandwich+beam+theory+for+partially+composite+concrete+sandwich+wall+panels.">Iterative and simplified sandwich beam theory for partially composite concrete sandwich wall panels.</a> Journal of Structural Engineering. 147 (10), 4021143 (2021).</li><li>Holmberg, A., Plem, E. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Behaviour+of+Load-bearing+Sandwich-type+Structures.">Behaviour of Load-bearing Sandwich-type Structures.</a> The National Swedish Institute for Building Research. , (1965).</li><li>Naito, C. 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Materials and Manufacturing Directorate. , (2011).</li><li>Al-Rubaye, S., Sorensen, T., Olsen, J., Maguire, M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Evaluating+elastic+behavior+for+partially+composite+precast+concrete+sandwich+wall+panels.">Evaluating elastic behavior for partially composite precast concrete sandwich wall panels.</a> PCI Journal. 63 (5), 71-88 (2018).</li><li>ASTM International. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Standard+practice+for+conducting+ruggedness+tests.">Standard practice for conducting ruggedness tests.</a> ASTM International. , 1169-1121 (2021).</li></ol>

The authors have nothing to disclose.

Many researchers have used some variation of this type of test for ICSWP, but this is the first instance of outlining all the individual steps. The literature does not address the critical steps in testing, including sensor types and specimen handling. This method describes a manner of testing that mimics more closely the behavior of the connectors when a panel is loaded in flexure as opposed to the single-shear test. There are several variables for this work that are yet to be studied. Specifically, information related ...

Insulated concrete sandwich wall panels (ICSWPs) comprise a layer of insulation placed in between two concrete layers, often called wythes, which synergically provide a thermally and structurally efficient component for building envelopes or load-bearing panels1 (Figure 1). To adapt to the rapidly changing construction industry and new building code regulations on thermal efficiency, precasters are fabricating ICSWPs with thinner concrete layers and thicker insulation layers with higher thermal resistance; additionally, designers are using more refined methods to account for the partially composite interaction of the concrete wythes to reduce the overall building costs while increasing the thermal and structural performance2. While it is known that structural efficiency largely depends on the structural connection between the concrete layers and that multiple proprietary shear connectors are available on the market, no standardized testing protocol exists in the literature to examine the mechanical properties of those connectors. The available connectors vary widely in their geometry, materials, and manufacturing, so it is difficult to obtain a unified analytical approach to determine their mechanical properties. For this reason, many researchers have used their own customized setups in the lab that try to mimic the fundamental behavior of the connectors at the service and strength limit states3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10. However, only two of them are part of a testing evaluation scheme5,8, despite them not being useful for all ranges of connectors due to their wide variation in shape, stiffness, and material composition.
<img alt="Figure 1" class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/64292/64292fig01.jpg" /> 
Figure 1: Typical composition of a sandwich wall panel specimen. <a href="https://www.jove.com/files/ftp_upload/64292/64292fig01large.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
A common method for testing these connectors is what is often termed single shear with either one row or two rows of connectors, as described previously3,11,12, which is often based on ASTM E488, a concrete anchor testing standard13. ASTM E488 does not require, but strongly implies through drawings of the suggested test setups, that a single anchor protruding from a fixed base of concrete will be tested. Once the specimens are tested, a set of load versus displacement curves is plotted, and the average values of the ultimate elastic load (Fu) and the elastic stiffness (K0.5Fu) are obtained from such curves. One of the main advantages of using this approach is that it produces low-variability results and does not necessitate large lab spaces or many sensors14. A different approach consists of loading a wythe connector in double shear to determine the mechanical properties for use in the design of those panels6,7,14,15,16. The resulting data are processed in the same fashion, and the average values of the ultimate elastic load (Fu) and the elastic stiffness (K0.5Fu) are obtained from testing. Although this testing approach involves using more material and needs more sensors, it is anecdotally easier to apply the loading and boundary conditions in a laboratory.
The two styles of testing do not seem dramatically different but produce different results largely based on their ability to mimic the connector behavior in a full-scale panel. The single-shear, single-row test setup produces a pinching action, as displayed in Figure 2B,C, and an additional overturning moment, as described previously14,17, which would not be present in a full-scale panel. The double shear does a better job of mimicking this full-scale behavior-it models the pure shear translation of the outer wythes relative to the central wythe. As a result, the double-shear values employed in analytical methods have been shown to produce results that are closer to those obtained in large-scale testing of representative insulated wall panels14. Figure 3 shows the schematic test setup for the single- and double-shear testing of a connector.
<img alt="Figure 2" class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/64292/64292fig02.jpg" /> 
Figure 2: Examples of different connector testing configurations employed in the literature. Single connector specimens have been shown to cause loading that does not represent the parallel translation of wythes seen in full-scale panels. (A)&#160;Double shear with two connectors; (B) Double shear with one connector; (C) Single shear with one connector. <a href="https://www.jove.com/files/ftp_upload/64292/64292fig02large.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
A common denominator of all these studies&#39; conclusions is that both the testing methodologies are appropriate for determining the mechanical properties of flexible connectors, but the double-shear testing scheme results resemble more closely the behavior of the connector in a real panel under flexure. In other words, when the user employs such testing results in an analytical model, they closely match the results of large-scale tests where the connectors are used. It is important to mention that the results of such testing are appropriate for models that rely on the mechanical properties as input design parameters directly, such as empirically derived methods, closed-form solutions of the sandwich beam theory, and finite element models with 2-D and 3-D springs7,18,19,20.
<img alt="Figure 3" class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/64292/64292fig03.jpg" /> 
Figure 3: Schematic view of the testing protocols in the literature. A ram is used to translate the wythes of the specimens relative to each other.&#160;(A) Single-shear and (B) double-shear testing protocols. <a href="https://www.jove.com/files/ftp_upload/64292/64292fig03large.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
In this work, an experimental protocol for obtaining the values of the backbone curve and the mechanical properties of insulated wall panel wythe connectors, namely Fu and K0.5Fu, is presented. The method is based on testing connectors using a double-shear test approach with some modifications to eliminate sources of variability and produce more reliable results. All the samples are constructed in a temperature-controlled environment, where they are tested when the concrete reaches the target compressive strength. The main advantage of this testing protocol is that it can be easily followed, can be replicated by different technicians, and closely describes the real behavior of the wythe connector in a real, insulated concrete wall panel under flexure or flexure and axial force combined, as has been shown in the literature.
The application of the suggested wythe connector testing protocol for determining the mechanical properties and material behavior will enhance the accuracy of testing results for the insulated concrete wall panel industry and decrease the barriers for entrepreneurs interested in creating innovative new connectors. The future large increase in insulated panel construction in both the tilt-up and precast concrete industries will require better use of materials and more unified methods to obtain engineering properties of the panels.

<table><tbody><tr><td>Battery-powered Drill</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Concrete Screws</td><td></td><td></td><td>50 mm long commercial concrete scews.</td></tr><tr><td>Data Logger</td><td></td><td></td><td>Capable of sampling at a frequency of at least 10 Hz.</td></tr><tr><td>Double Shear Test Specimen</td><td></td><td></td><td>Fabricated according to the dimmensions in the testing protocol.</td></tr><tr><td>Four Linear Variable Displacement Transformer</td><td></td><td></td><td>With at least 25 mm range for Fiber-reinforced Polymer (FRP) connectors and 50 mm for ductile steel connectors.</td></tr><tr><td>Hydraulic Actuator</td><td></td><td></td><td>With at least 50-Ton capacity.</td></tr><tr><td>Lifting anchors rated at 1 Ton</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Load Cell</td><td></td><td></td><td>With at least 50-Ton capacity.</td></tr><tr><td>Load Frame</td><td></td><td></td><td>Capable of resisting the forces generated by the testing specimen.</td></tr><tr><td>Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Pads</td><td></td><td></td><td>3 mm x 100 mm x 600 mm&amp;nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Ratchet Strap</td><td></td><td></td><td>At least 50 mm wide.</td></tr><tr><td>Steel angle</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Steel Plate</td><td></td><td></td><td>Two 20 mm x 150 mm x 150 mm steel plates.</td></tr><tr><td>Steel Washers</td><td></td><td></td><td>Capable of producing a separation of at least 5 mm between the steel angle and the specimen.</td></tr></tbody></table>

determination of the mechanical properties of flexible connectors for use in insulated concrete wall panels

This document contains recommendations for performing a non-standard, double-shear test suitable for both continuous and discrete insulated concrete sandwich wall panels (ICSWPs). Such a standardized test does not exist, but several iterations of this and similar tests have been performed in the literature to varying degrees of success. Further, the tests in the literature are rarely-if ever-described in detail or discussed at length with respect to the testing, data analysis, or safety procedures. A test specimen configuration is recommended herein, and variations are discussed. Important mechanical properties are identified from the load versus displacement data, and their extraction is detailed. The use of test data for design, such as for determining the stiffness of the connectors, is briefly demonstrated to show how ICSWP deflection and cracking behavior may be calculated. The strength behavior of panels may be determined using the full load versus displacement curve or only the maximum connector strength. Shortcomings and unknowns are acknowledged, and significant future work is delineated.

Figure 8 and Figure 9A show a typical load per connector versus the average displacement curve resulting from a double-shear test of a fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) connector in the laboratory. As the figures depict, the load increases steadily up to the maximum point and then drops dramatically, which is typically observed in most testing involving polymers. However, as Figure 9B suggests, the curve flattens after the maximum load...

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Determination of the Mechanical Properties of Flexible Connectors for Use in Insulated Concrete Wall Panels

We propose a testing protocol that can be combined with widely available analytical methods to assess the mechanical properties of shear connectors for use in the design of insulated concrete wall panels to predict full-scale insulated panel behavior.

This document contains recommendations for performing a non-standard, double-shear test suitable for both continuous and discrete insulated concrete ...

determination-mechanical-properties-flexible-connectors-for-use

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1.5K Views.  Pontificia Universidad Catolica Madre y Maestra. We propose a testing protocol that can be combined with widely available analytical methods to assess the mechanical properties of shear connectors for use in the design of insulated concrete wall panels to predict full-scale insulated panel behavior.

Video: Determination of the Mechanical Properties of Flexible Connectors for Use in Insulated Concrete Wall Panels

A Testing Platform for Durability Studies of Polymers and Fiber-reinforced Polymer Composites under Concurrent Hygrothermo-mechanical Stimuli

The durability of polymers and fiber-reinforced polymer composites under service condition is a critical aspect to be addressed for their robust designs and condition-based maintenance. These materials are adopted in a wide range of engineering applications, from aircraft and ship structures, to bridges, wind turbine blades, biomaterials and biomedical implants. Polymers are viscoelastic materials, and their response may be highly nonlinear and thus make it challenging to predict and monitor their in-service performance. The laboratory-scale testing platform presented herein assists the investigation of the influence of concurrent mechanical loadings and environmental conditions on these materials. The platform was designed to be low-cost and user-friendly. Its chemically resistant materials make the platform adaptable to studies of chemical degradation due to in-service exposure to fluids. An example of experiment was conducted at RT on closed-cell polyurethane foam samples loaded with a weight corresponding to ~50% of their ultimate static and dry load. Results show that the testing apparatus is appropriate for these studies. Results also highlight the larger vulnerability of the polymer under concurrent loading, based on the higher mid-point displacements and lower residual failure loads. Recommendations are made for additional improvements to the testing apparatus.

The durability of polymers and fiber-reinforced polymer composites in service is a critical aspect for their designs and condition-based maintenance. We present a novel low-cost laboratory testing platform for the investigation of the influence of concurrent mechanical and environmental loadings, and may help design more efficient yet safer composite structures.

The durability of polymers and fiber-reinforced polymer composites under service condition is a critical aspect to be addressed for their robust designs ...

Preparation of Aligned Steel Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Composite and Its Flexural Behavior

The aim of this work is to present an approach, inspired by the way in which a compass needle maintains a consistent orientation under the action of the Earth&#39;s magnetic field, for manufacturing a cementitious composite reinforced with aligned steel fibers. Aligned steel fiber reinforced cementitious composites (ASFRC) were prepared by applying a uniform electromagnetic field to fresh mortar containing short steel fibers, whereby the short steel fibers were driven to rotate in alignment with the magnetic field. The degree of alignment of steel fibers in hardened ASFRC was assessed both by counting steel fibers in fractured cross-sections and by X-ray computed tomography analysis. The results from the two methods show that the steel fibers in ASFRC were highly aligned while the steel fibers in non-magnetically treated composites were randomly distributed. The aligned steel fibers had a much higher reinforcing efficiency, and the composites, therefore, exhibited significantly enhanced flexural strength and toughness. The ASFRC is thus superior to SFRC in that it can withstand greater tensile stress and more effectively resist cracking.

This protocol describes an approach for manufacturing aligned steel fiber reinforced cementitious composite by applying a uniform electromagnetic field. Aligned steel fiber reinforced cementitious composite exhibits superior mechanical properties to ordinary fiber reinforced concrete.

The aim of this work is to present an approach, inspired by the way in which a compass needle maintains a consistent orientation under the action of the ...

The Effect of Construction and Demolition Waste Plastic Fractions on Wood-Polymer Composite Properties

Construction and demolition waste (CDW), including valuable materials such as plastics, have a remarkable influence on the waste sector. In order for plastic materials to be re-utilized, they must be identified and separated according to their polymer composition. In this study, the identification of these materials was performed using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR), which identified material based on their physical-chemical properties. Advantages of the NIR method are a low environmental impact and rapid measurement (within a few seconds) in the spectral range of 1600-2400 nm without special sample preparation. Limitations include its inability to analyze dark materials. The identified polymers were utilized as a component for wood-polymer composite (WPC) that consists of a polymer matrix, low cost fillers, and additives. The components were first compounded with an agglomeration apparatus, followed by production by extrusion. In the agglomeration process, the aim was to compound all materials to produce uniformly distributed and granulated materials as pellets. During the agglomeration process, the polymer (matrix) was melted and fillers and other additives were then mixed into the melted polymer, being ready for the extrusion process. In the extrusion method, heat and shear forces were applied to a material within the barrel of a conical counter-rotating twin-screw type extruder, which reduces the risk of burning the materials and lower shear mixing. The heated and sheared mixture was then conveyed through a die to give the product the desired shape. The above-described protocol proved the potential for re-utilization of CDW materials. Functional properties must be verified according to the standardized tests, such as flexural, tensile, and impact strength tests for the material.

Secondary material streams have been shown to include potential raw materials for production. Presented here is a protocol in which CDW-plastic waste as a raw material is identified, followed by various processing steps (agglomeration, extrusion). As a result, a composite material was produced, and mechanical properties were analyzed.

Construction and demolition waste (CDW), including valuable materials such as plastics, have a remarkable influence on the waste sector. In order for ...

Environment

Cutting Procedures, Tensile Testing, and Ageing of Flexible Unidirectional Composite Laminates

Many body armor designs incorporate unidirectional (UD) laminates. UD laminates are constructed of thin (&#60;0.05 mm) layers of high-performance yarns, where the yarns in each layer are oriented parallel to each other and held in place using binder resins and thin polymer films. The armor is constructed by stacking the unidirectional layers in different orientations. To date, only very preliminary work has been performed to characterize the ageing of the binder resins used in unidirectional laminates and the effects on their performance. For example, during the development of the conditioning protocol used in the National Institute of Justice Standard-0101.06, UD laminates showed visual signs of delamination and reductions in V50, which is the velocity at which half of the projectiles are expected to perforate the armor, after ageing. A better understanding of the material property changes in UD laminates is necessary to comprehend the long-term performance of armors constructed from these materials. There are no current standards recommended for mechanically interrogating unidirectional (UD) laminate materials. This study explores methods and best practices for accurately testing the mechanical properties of these materials and proposes a new test methodology for these materials. Best practices for ageing these materials are also described.

The goal of the study was to develop protocols to prepare consistent specimens for accurate mechanical testing of high-strength aramid or ultra-high-molar-mass polyethylene-based flexible unidirectional composite laminate materials and to describe protocols for performing artificial ageing on these materials.

Many body armor designs incorporate unidirectional (UD) laminates. UD laminates are constructed of thin (&#60;0.05 mm) layers of high-performance yarns, ...

Twin-Screw Extrusion Process to Produce Renewable Fiberboards

A versatile twin-screw extrusion process to provide an efficient thermo-mechano-chemical pre-treatment on lignocellulosic biomass before using it as source of mechanical reinforcement in fully bio-based fiberboards was developed. Various lignocellulosic crop by-products have already been successfully pre-treated through this process, e.g., cereal straws (especially rice), coriander straw, shives from oleaginous flax straw, and bark of both amaranth and sunflower stems.
The extrusion process results in a marked increase in the average fiber aspect ratio, leading to improved mechanical properties of fiberboards. The twin-screw extruder can also be fitted with a filtration module at the end of the barrel. The continuous extraction of various chemicals (e.g., free sugars, hemicelluloses, volatiles from essential oil fractions, etc.) from the lignocellulosic substrate, and the fiber refining can, therefore, be performed simultaneously.
The extruder can also be used for its mixing ability: a natural binder (e.g., Organosolv lignins, protein-based oilcakes, starch, etc.) can be added to the refined fibers at the end of the screw profile. The obtained premix is ready to be molded through hot pressing, with the natural binder contributing to fiberboard cohesion. Such a combined process in a single extruder pass improves the production time, production cost, and may lead to reduction in plant production size. Because all the operations are performed in a single step, fiber morphology is better preserved, thanks to a reduced residence time of the material inside the extruder, resulting in enhanced material performances. Such one-step extrusion operation may be at the origin of a valuable industrial process intensification.
Compared to commercial wood-based materials, these fully bio-based fiberboards do not emit any formaldehyde, and they could find various applications, e.g., intermediate containers, furniture, domestic flooring, shelving, general construction, etc.

A versatile twin-screw extrusion process to provide an efficient thermo-mechano-chemical pretreatment on lignocellulosic biomass was developed, which leads to an increased average fiber aspect ratio. A natural binder can also be added continuously after fiber refining, leading to bio-based fiberboards with improved mechanical properties after hot pressing of the obtained extruded material.

A versatile twin-screw extrusion process to provide an efficient thermo-mechano-chemical pre-treatment on lignocellulosic biomass before using it as ...

Ceramic-matrix Composite Materials and Their Bending Properties

Source: Sina Shahbazmohamadi and <a href="https://www.jove.com/author/Peiman_Shahbeigi-Roodposhti">Peiman Shahbeigi-Roodposhti-Roodposhti</a>, School of Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
Bones are composites, made of a ceramic matrix and polymer fiber reinforcements. The ceramic contributes compressive strength, and the polymer provides tensile and flexural strength. By combining ceramic and polymer materials in different amounts, the body can create unique materials tailored for a specific application. As biomedical engineers, having the ability to replace and replicate bone due to disease or traumatic injury is a vital facet of medical science.
In this experiment we will create three different ceramic-matrix composites with plaster of Paris (which is a calcium sulfate compound), and allow them to undergo three-point bending test in order to determine which preparation is the strongest. The three composites are as follows: one comprised only of plaster of Paris, one with chopped glass shards mixed in a plaster matrix and lastly a plaster matrix with a fiberglass network embedded within it.

Bending Strength and 3-Point Bending Test of Ceramic Materials

Source: Sina Shahbazmohamadi and Peiman Shahbeigi-Roodposhti-Roodposhti, School of Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
Bones are ...

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Materials Engineering

Tests of Hardened Concrete in Tension

Source:&#160;Roberto Leon, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
In a previous laboratory focused on concrete in compression, we observed that concrete can withstand very large stresses under uniaxial compressive forces. However, the failures observed were not compressive failures but failures along shear planes where maximum tensile forces occur. Thus, it is important to understand the behavior of concrete in tension and particularly its maximum strength as that will govern both its ultimate and service behavior. From the ultimate standpoint, combinations of tension and shear stresses will lead to cracking and immediate and catastrophic failure. For that reason, concrete is seldom if ever used in an unreinforced condition in structural applications; most concrete members will be reinforced with steel so that these cracks can be stopped and the crack widths limited. The latter is important from the serviceability standpoint because controlling crack widths and distribution is the key to durability, as this will impede deicing salts and similar chemicals from penetrating and corroding the reinforcing steel.
The objectives of this experiment are threefold: (1) to conduct tensile split cylinder tests to determine concrete tensile strength, (2) to conduct beam tests to determine concrete tensile strength, and (3) to demonstrate the influence of steel reinforcement on behavior by comparing the behavior of lightly reinforced beam with an unreinforced one.

Split Tension Test and Beam Tension Test for Hardened Concrete

Source:&#160;Roberto Leon, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
In a previous laboratory focused on concrete ...

Structural Engineering

Composite Masonry Walls

Composite masonry walls combine multiple wythes of the same or different masonry materials to create a unified structure. These walls feature wythes that are bonded together either through mortar-filled collar joints, grouted spaces, or more commonly, with rigid metal ties and reinforcements, with the use of masonry header units being rare. Metal ties are preferred because they effectively minimize water penetration, as these walls primarily absorb moisture and then release it into the atmosphere.
Traditionally, composite walls might mix various materials, such as terra cotta, stone, or facing brick, with internal wythes made of bricks or hollow clay tile, aiming to achieve an optimal balance of appearance, durability, and cost-effectiveness. A classic example is a wall that combines a durable and aesthetically pleasing stone facade with an economical brick inner wythe, using metal ties for bonding. However, modern practices lean towards using uniform masonry types and metal ties over masonry headers for bonding wythes, particularly in load-bearing structures, to ensure consistent structural behavior throughout the wall. An example of this approach is a wall constructed from concrete masonry units for both wythes, bonded with reinforcements, mortar-filled collar joints, and metal ties.

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Composite masonry walls are constructed using two or more wythes made with different masonry materials or the same masonry materials.
The wythes are ...

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Masonry Curtain Walls

Masonry curtain walls employ brick or stone veneers supported by the building&#39;s structure to form an external cladding system that is both aesthetically appealing and functional. These walls are erected through two principal techniques, first by traditional layering of masonry units and second by using prefabricated panels. Traditional construction relies on steel shelf angles attached to the spandrel beam for support, with high-bond mortars ensuring secure attachment of masonry veneer units. Integral to this system is the backup wall, usually made from concrete units or steel studs, providing support for flashing, insulation, and interior finishes. The backup wall is linked to the curtain wall via joint reinforcing and masonry ties that allow for movement between the two, maintaining structural integrity. This method incorporates expansion joints to manage thermal changes and some instances, a provision for cavity and weep holes behind the veneer to effectively prevent moisture ingress. Prefabricated panels, assembled on the ground and lifted into place, offer a time-efficient alternative, using a plastic gasket form liner inside a form for brick placement, reinforcement, and concrete overlay, creating durable, integrated panels.

Murowane ściany osłonowe

Masonry curtain walls are exterior claddings of brick or stone masonry veneers supported by the building&#39;s structural frame.
Firstly, steel shelf ...

Determination of the Mechanical Properties of Flexible Connectors for Use in Insulated Concrete Wall Panels

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A Testing Platform for Durability Studies of Polymers and Fiber-reinforced Polymer Composites under Concurrent Hygrothermo-mechanical Stimuli

Preparation of Aligned Steel Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Composite and Its Flexural Behavior

The Effect of Construction and Demolition Waste Plastic Fractions on Wood-Polymer Composite Properties

Cutting Procedures, Tensile Testing, and Ageing of Flexible Unidirectional Composite Laminates

Twin-Screw Extrusion Process to Produce Renewable Fiberboards

Ceramic-matrix Composite Materials and Their Bending Properties

Tests of Hardened Concrete in Tension

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