Connections for steel–timber hybrid prefabricated buildings. Part II: Innovative modular structures

This paper aims at the development of multi-storey prefabricated modular buildings. Particularly, this document deals with a novel versatile construction system in which the main structural members, made by combining timber with steel, are highly engineered and can be produced in the factory. The research demonstrates the potential of steel–timber hybrid structures in terms of sustainability, providing lightweight modern seismic-resistant constructions. This document presents the results of a comprehensive experimental campaign, including tests on several innovative connections, and of the numerical FEM analyses of the structural components. The paper also provides prototypes of new highly-industrialized steel–timber hybrid shear wall and floor components.