Shear strength of cross laminated timber-concrete connections reinforced with carbon fibre polymer composites

Abstract

This paper presents an experimental study on the mechanical behaviour of four different timber concrete composite (TCC) connections. Experimental shear tests were conducted to assess the strength and stiffness of the composite connection system. A new type of connection based on carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) was also proposed to achieve enhanced performance at the cross laminated timber. The stiffness and strength for each type of connection were identified by assessing the load-slip behaviour and load capacity. In addition, the relationship between applied force and slip characteristic of each type of connecting system was also established. Results showed that the addition of CFRP to the connection can effectively improve the maximum shear capacity and stiffness of the connection.