Tension Activated Kirigami Structures for Interlayer Use in Circular Construction Applications

Abstract

Motivated by the use of fully circular materials and improving sustainability, this thesis investigates the use of tension-activated kirigami as an architected material, for which mechanical properties are determined by their designed structure (geometry) rather than the bulk material itself. These architected materials can be used as a dry replacement for adhesives in construction with glass masonry units, enabling reclaimability and recyclability of both the interlayer material and glass masonry unit. The kirigami design and material selection allow for the customization of architected-material properties for best compatibility with the glass units. The research has involved both analytical/mathematical modeling for early material and design selection and an experimental process to develop an empirical database. Experimentation on different materials, designs, aspect ratios, etc. has provided data to begin extrapolating trends and behaviors of the architected material. These data will allow for design decisions and material selections based on the functional requirements of a specific structure or application.