Development of a High-Performance Hybrid System Made of Composites and Timber (High-Tech Timber Beam®)

Abstract

For increased requirements in terms of load-carrying capacity and long spans, a hybrid composite beam made of glulam and high-performance materials was developed at the Bauhaus University Weimar in cooperation with a local SME. The compression zone at the top of the beam is reinforced by an epoxy-based Polymer Concrete (PC). The tension zone at the bottom is strengthened either with Fiber Reinforced Plastics (FRP) - or steel-reinforced lamellas made of Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL). Further reinforcing elements increase the shear resistance or improve the transverse load-carrying capacity at the bearings. By the use of PC all parts are surface mounted with a stiff connection. © RILEM 2014.