Abstract:
This paper looks at the possibility of using cross-laminated timber construction, which is commonly referred to as CLT, to support commercial buildings to thirty levels. A prototype building structure is proposed and analysed using an elastic analysis program. The main structural elements, including a central tube core, columns and beams, are made of CLT. The CLT panels are arranged to ensure structural efficiency with minimal material wastage. A building of this height has the potential to undergo significant vibration in response to turbulent wind loading. The Eurocode analysis procedure for along-wind response of structures is applied to the prototype building, and the effect of the vibration on the comfort of building occupants and the magnitude of the loads on the structure is considered. The paper concludes that the proposed structural system with CLT elements is likely to be suitable for buildings to thirty levels.
