Shear Stiffness for Z-Core Sandwich Panels

Abstract

In this paper, the shear stiffness in the weaker direction of Z-core sandwich panels is studied. The recurrence condition is assumed, and the shear stiffness is derived from the first principle. The contact interaction between the facing plates and the flanges of the Z-sections is considered. Compatibility equations and the shear strain of a typical segment are obtained from the Principle of Virtual Work. Formulas for the shear stiffness in the weaker direction are derived explicitly. It is shown that there are two shear stiffness values associated with the Z-core sandwich panels, depending on the direction of the shear force. The stronger value of a typical panel can be 60% higher than the weaker value. To verify this phenomenon experimentally, two steel sandwich panels with different stiffener spacing were fabricated and tested. Good agreement was obtained between the theoretical predictions and the experimental results.