THICK SKIN SANDWICH BEAM COLUMNS WITH WEAK CORES

An analytical method for predicting the behavior of sandwich beam columns was developed for cases where thick skins and weak cores are utilized. It is anticipated that this analytical tool will help in the design of this type of elements for buildings where the other functions (i. e. , thermal and acoustic insulation) can also be satisfied in an integrated design. Analytical expressions were derived for seven loading conditions, the most complicated of which was with end thrusts and end moments and a concentrated midspan load, all acting on an initially bowed beam-column. As an example, additional design equations were derived for this loading condition so that stresses and strains in the skins and core could be evaluated. This analytical tool has proven to be useful in the design of prototype sandwich panels.