The estimation of column creep buckling durability from the initial stages of creep

SummaryThe first stages of creep buckling of a column are considered assuming initial shapeimperfection. Different creep models of material behaviour are considered, and expressions for the time dependence of the deflection are obtained. A formula for the estimation of column creep buckling durability is proposed, as a measure of the column stability. The limit of zero initial shape imperfection is discussed.