ABSTRACT
In this paper a bundled glass column is presented as a promising solution for a completely transparent, almost dematerialized structural compressive element. The aim is to obtain a glass column that can safely carry loads, achieve a high visual result and be relatively easily manufactured. Different types of adhesives, rod configurations and bonding methods are explored in search of an optimum balance between structural and visual results. The final column comprises six solid glass rods interlocking to a central glass star-shaped profile, bonded together by a clear, UV-curing adhesive. The high shear stiffness of the adhesive allows for the desired coupled behaviour of the rods whilst its similar refraction index to glass and homogeneous spread result in minimal visual distortion. To determine the strength and failure mode of the column, compression tests are conducted on 0.5 m and 1.5 m high prototypes and the results are presented and discussed.
