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Influence of transverse tensile loads on the compressive strength of carbon reinforced concrete Initial findings on the load‐bearing behaviour of carbon reinforced concrete components under uniaxial compressive stress are available, however multi‐axial stress states are of particular relevance for an application in construction practice. It is known from steel reinforced concrete constructions that transverse tensile stresses lead to a reduction in the compressive strength, although there is still no international agreement on the actual reduction. In this paper we investigate the boundary conditions under which carbon reinforced disc shaped specimens can be tested under combined compressive and tensile loading. This includes the anchoring of the carbon yarns required for the tests in limited space conditions as well as the influence of the loading regime – proportional or sequential – and the manufacturing process – laminated or casted – on the test results. Finally, an outlook on the following investigations is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fire testing of loaded carbon tension members The application of carbon tension members is motivated by extraordinary well fatigue behaviour and high tensile strength of the material. Compared to steel, cross sections can be reduced. Steel tension members used for network arch bridges shall be replaced in perspective. The loadbearing behaviour of carbon tension members in case of fire is still unknown. Therefore, fire tests were performed to investigate the failure mechanisms. Based on the derived test data the comparability to conventional steel tension members was estimated. This paper describes real scale fire testing of mechanically loaded carbon tension members, carried out as a part of the joint research project NeZuCa. The test setup consisted of four carbon tension members with circular cross sections and diameters of 36 mm and 51 mm. In absence of a prescriptive fire scenario for the application case intended in the research project and to ensure comparability, a fire exposure according to standard temperature/time curve was chosen. The elongation of the tension members as well as the temperatures of the specimen and the furnace were recorded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Universal high‐performance columns made of high‐strength steels without welding In recent years, steel‐concrete composite columns made of normal‐strength steels are seldom used owing to the economic and technological advantages of precast reinforced concrete columns. Though, the use of high‐strength structural steels bears high potential for the efficient production of composite columns with excellent structural performance that are economically competitive to precast concrete columns, there are currently major obstacles to use of the ultra‐high‐strength steels (UHSS) in Germany. Hollow section composite columns with embedded high strength steel core without welded connections provide an opportunity to regain lost market share. A research project, funded by the AiF (Arbeitsgemeinschaft industrieller Forschungsvereinigungen), is intended to explore the potential of UHSS composite columns by experimental and theoretical investigations. The present paper demonstrates the concept of such composite columns with UHSS and gives first exciting insights into the research results. In addition to column tests under ambient and fire conditions, small scale tests are necessary to investigate various influencing factors and to create the basis for new and easy to use design and construction principles that allow efficient application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental investigations on the durability of intumescent coatings Intumescent coatings are used in structural fire protection to improve the fire resistance of steel structures. Beside structural fire resistance also aesthetic demands can be fulfilled. The profile‐following application and the low dry film thickness of the products make it possible to maintain the filigree appearance of steel structures. In addition to the thermal protection effect, the durability of the coating must also be ensured. The assessment methods available at European level by EAD 350402‐00‐1106 aim to a service life of ten years. Test methods for a longer period are not described. This paper presents experimental investigations on the influence of weathering on the expansion behaviour, the thermal performance and the reactions taking place during foaming in case of fire. The tests were carried out on a water‐based and an epoxy resin‐based intumescent coating. The research results were obtained in the IGF research project 20470 N. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automated post weld treatment for offshore wind turbines A more economical and resource‐saving construction of offshore wind energy converters (OWEC) is necessary in order to implement climate policy objectives. The increase of the fatigue resistance by using high‐strength steels and by applying post‐weld treatment methods offers great potential for reducing the use of materials and costs for monopiles. Specifically, in the automated OWEC manufacturing chain, automated processes such as deep rolling are a suitable option. Deep rolling is an established process in mechanical engineering for increasing the wear and fatigue resistance of metallic components. This paper presents results of deep rolling as a new post treatment method to increase the fatigue strength of welds. The surface and subsurface zone properties of submerged arc welded butt joints made of a structural steel grade S355MLO before and after deep rolling are shown. In order to quantify the influence of deep rolling on the weld geometry, measurements of a laser line sensor are presented. Finally, the results of fatigue tests are discussed, which show the great potential of the deep rolling process as a post weld treatment method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]