Recent development in CLT connections part II: In-plane shear connections for CLT bracing elements under cyclic loads

Abstract

Because of their high shear strength and stiffness, cross-laminated timber (CLT) members are especially suited for in-plane loads. However, the ductility and energy dissipation capacity of a CLT structure is mainly determined by properties of the mechanical connections such as dowel-type fasteners. Unfortunately, the load-slip behavior of these typical timber-to-timber connections shows pinched hysteresis loops and impairment of strength. For seismic loads, highly dissipative connections with stable dissipation properties are desirable. A new type of connection was developed avoiding the pinching of hysteresis loops while showing high energy dissipation. An experimental investigation and a design proposal of a highly dissipative steel plate connection for CLT shear walls is presented as a result of the work.