Characterization of elastic properties of pultruded profiles using model updating procedure with vibration test data

In this paper, a model updating technique in dynamics is used to identify elastic properties for pultruded GFRP-Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastic framed structural systems used in civil construction. Traditional identification techniques for composite materials may be expensive, while this alternative approach allows to identify several properties simultaneously, with very good precision. Furthermore, the procedure of a non-destructive type has a relatively simple implementation. Properties describing the mechanical behavior for beam and shell finite element modeling are identified. The used formulation is based on the minimization of eigensolution residuals. Important points concerning model updating procedures have been observed, such as the particular vibrational behavior of the test structure, the modeling strategies and the optimal placement of the sensors in the experimental procedure. Results obtained by experimental tests show the efficiency of the proposed procedure.