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orthotropic Definition

ortho·tropic (ôr′t̸hō träpik)

adjective

  1. designating or of a design for bridges in which the structural supporting units also form the deck, or road surface, thus reducing weight and cost of construction
  2. Bot. designating, of, or showing vertical growth, as most main stems and roots

Etymology: ortho- + -tropic

orthotropic Usage Examples

Modifies a noun

  • plate: The background to the subject and the nature of orthotropic plates are explained.
  • material: The document applies to plates made of naturally orthotropic materials, such as wood.
  • layer: The theory, which is presented in detail, assumes the plate is made from thin orthotropic homogeneous layers with perfect bonding between them.
  • deck: In addition, an orthotropic deck is more sensitive to freezing which means its roadway can suddenly become slippery due to icing.
  • composite: For an orthotropic composite, there may be a different Poisson's ratio associated with each plane.