Different
models are developed for imperfect compression members in real structural
systems. Upper-bound solutions
obtained for the load-
deformation characteristics of perfect struts are used in the development of models based
on the Shanley’s concept of bifurcation instability and on the concept of the
limit point on the equilibrium path. The former incorporates the first order
solutions for linear-elastic deformation and inelastic strain
hardening deformation, while the latter - elastic buckling and post-yield plastic-hinge
collapse in addition to the previous ones. On assuming the Murzewski’s
statistical hypothesis method, the said solutions have been treated as
independent random variables having Weibull probability distributions. It has
been further shown that buckling curves constructed from these models can
reproduce the standard buckling curves adopted in current design standards
provided that the effect of strain hardening is properly taken care of.