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Investigation into Mechanical Properties of Mass Timber T-Beam System

delete2025-05-01
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PRE
AI
A
Ayomide D. Ayodele *
M
Munkaila Musah
P
Peggi L. Clouston
DOI:10.1061/JMCEE7.MTENG-18628delete
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Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
This study proposes a new type of mass timber system in the shape of a T-beam. A well-proven and effective configuration for concrete and metal structures, T-shaped cross sections are not common for mass timber, yet they offer known inherent physical and structural efficiencies. The paper presents an analytical design comparison of major-axis bending stiffness and strength of several T-beam configurations and compares them to cross-laminated timber (CLT) configurations. The results indicate the potential for substantially higher mechanical properties using less lumber, leading to longer spans or higher loads with possibly cheaper building designs. Follow-up experimental tests for bending strength, stiffness, and shear strength were conducted on prototype 5-layer T-beams made from Eastern hemlock feedstock. A comparison of experimental values to design values for mean EIapp for both conventional 3-layer CLT and 5-layer T-beams showed good agreement, while differences between values for FbSeff were reassuringly consistent for both products taking 5% exclusion values and safety factors into consideration. The comparison helped to validate the design analysis, which indicated excellent potential for the mass timber T-beam concept.
Keywords:
PERFORMANCE
LUMBER
CLT

Journal

J
Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
IF:
3
Papers:
7.2K
Citations:
2.4W

Organization

U
university of massachusetts system
Scholars:
3.8W
Papers: 3.5W
Citations: 42
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