Designing the Grand Canyon’s new laminated glass walkway

Dr. Stephen J. Bennison, E.I. DuPont de Nemours & Co. Inc., GLS Technical Associate & Mr. Francis Serruys, Saint-Gobain Glass - CDI, SGGS Project R&D and Marketing Manager

In this contribution we discuss the methodology used to design an external glass flooring application in the Skywalk at the Grand Canyon West. The methodology is based upon structural calculations of laminated glass using finite element-based procedures. In addition, sacrificial glass plies that are redundant to the structural function are included to allow for the possibility of accidental glass breakage due to contact damage. The finite element simulations are based on the mechanical properties of the glass and the ionoplast structural polymer interlayer used in the job. The designed multi-ply laminate has been verified by testing. The top surface of the glass is partially treated with a non-slip surface for walkway safety. A standard PVB laminated safety glass is used as a balustrade assuring a clear, unobstructed view of the canyon.

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The Authors

	Dr. Stephen Bennison Research Associate E.I. DuPont de Nemours & Co. Inc. Steve Bennison works on programs related to the development of polymer interlayers for laminated glass. Since 2001 he has been working for DuPont’s Glass Laminated Products business unit as a Researc... Read more
	Mr. Francis Serruys Project and Marketing Manager Saint-Gobain Glass Exprover Read more