Behaviour of Cross-Laminated Timber Panels under Cyclic Loads

In this paper, the behaviour of cross-lam (CLT) wall systems under cyclic loads is examined. Experimental investigations of single walls and adjacent wall panels (coupled walls) in terms of cyclic behaviour under lateral loading carried out in Italy at IVALSA Trees and Timber Institute and in Canada at FPInnovations are presented. Different classifications of the global behaviour of CLT wall systems are introduced. Typical failure mechanisms are discussed and provisions for a proper CLT wall seismic design are given. The influences of different types of global behaviour on mechanical properties and energy dissipation of the CLT wall systems are critically discussed. The outcomes of this experimental study provides better understanding of the seismic behaviour and energy dissipation capacities of CLT wall systems.