Novel concept of performance enhancing hybrid adhesive connections in glass structures

Adhesive connections are increasingly used as an alternative to bolted connections for façade elements and structural glass components. The disadvantages of mechanical connections, such as damage induced by drilling holes and local stress intensification at the holes, are indeed overcome by adhesive connections. However, adhesive connections are still characterized by uncertainties and drawbacks that reduce their use for structural purpose. Durability performance, adhesive stress peaks and fabrication complexity belong to the main concerns when using adhesive connections. This work presents a novel concept for adhesive connections for glass structures. The concept concerns the use of two adhesives within a single connection, here called hybrid adhesive connection. It is aimed at improving durability performance, improving mechanical behaviour and reducing fabrication difficulties. Explorative investigations on preliminary prototypes show promising results in terms of enhanced humidity resistance, enhanced structural performance and ease of production.