Stability: directions in experimental research

Abstract The role of experimental research is related to the development of sophisticated testing equipment, the computer, and the developing analytical capabilities in structural engineering. The goal of this paper is to review experimental developments which directly relate to laboratory testing today and to look ahead at an emerging, more symbiotic relationship between experimental and analytical research. Development of servo-controlled testing, computer data acquisition/control and the pseudo-dynamic approach to testing are used to illustrate the likely direction for stability related structural research. The requirement for thorough measurements in the design of an experiment and complete reporting of the data including material properties beyond the norm of ‘mill certificates’ is essential for credible results. Geometric properties, imperfections, and residual stress information are cited as essential for evaluation of stability related experimentation. The study of behaviour beyond ultimate load, both analytically and experimentally, while possible, presents new challenges and solutions when the techniques are used together rather than for independent comparison.