FEM-based numerical strategy for analysis of composite modular floor prototype for emergency housing applications

Abstract

The paper presents the numerical modelling of a temporary residential floor prototype composed of three jointed composite floor sandwich panels made of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) skins, a polyurethane foam core (PU) and pultruded U-shaped GFRP profiles working as ribs. Panels are supported on a GFRP pultruded frame structure. A 3D nonlinear finite element model is developed considering geometrical and material nonlinearities and adherent surfaces interaction. The model is coherently validated with experimental results, showing its capability to capture the mechanical performance of a single panel (which includes the possibility of local instability on the GFRP skin), two and three panels working together, and the whole prototype. A series of parametric studies are then conducted using the numerical model developed. Those studies aim to (i) assess the influence that ribs on the panel stiffness and on the shear stresses distribution through the sandwich panel’s components, (ii) the flexibility of the designed connections between jointed panels and frame structure, and (iii) the influence of geometry in the modular housing.