Analysis on Dynamic Behavior of Simply Supported GFRP Tube Concrete-Encased Steel Members Under Lateral Impact Loads

In order to investigate the lateral impact resistance of GFRP concrete-encased steel members, a total of 26 members were established using ABAQUS. On the basis of correct models, the failure mode has been identified, and the parameters have been analyzed. The results indicate that the failure mode of the members is flexural failure under lateral impact. The increase of the impact energy and impulse caused further failure of the members. Conversely, the impact resistance of the members was improved with the increase of the concrete strength, yield strength of the steel, thickness of the GFRP tube, cross-section diameter, and steel ratio. It is recommended that the yield strength of the steel not be more than 390 MPa, while the optimum thickness of the GFRP tube is 6 mm.