Comparison study on characteristic analysis methods of CLT wall-to-floor T connection under shear test

ObjectiveMechanical characteristic analysis method is an effective way to evaluate structure mechanical performance. In research of wood structure field, three analysis methods are widely accepted, which are method involved in ASTM E2126, EN 12512 and Y&K method. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is considered as an important wood composite to build high-rise wood constructions in the future. Researches on CLT material properties have been launched over years, but tests on CLT connection system mechanical performance and development are still in early stage.

MethodIn this research, a T-shape metal connector was used to connect CLT wall and floor panel. Based on the shear test results, mechanical characteristic values such as stiffness, yield point and ductility ratio were determined by applying those three methods.

ResultThe comparison results between methods show that the yield point calculated from Y&K is differ from other two methods, the stiffness value and ductility ratio results of EN method are higher, and the difference between ASTM method and EN method is affected by the test curve.

ConclusionFor an overall consideration, Y&K method has more practical engineering reference meaning for the type of CLT wall-to-panel connection tested here and those wood structures that have similar test curve shape and ductile failure mode.