Hybrid wood-based structural systems for multi-storey buildings

This work concerns modern buildings with a highly prefabricated hybrid steel-timber construction system. The paper shows in detail an innovative modular structure built using standardized construction components. The floors consist of an assembly of composite steel-timber elements with flat CLT slabs, while the main structural framework is an ensemble of concentrically braced steel frames. The document presents two new construction technologies developed for the realization of ultra-light and sustainable composite floors. This study focuses particularly on the problem of the connections required to provide a flexibility-based collaboration between the steel and wooden elements. Several engineered connection solutions have been developed by considering the assembly methods and structural requirements, as well as the manufacturing time and related costs. This document discusses results obtained from an exclusive experimental campaign which includes short and long-term shear tests on connections and bending tests on prototypes of floor elements.