A Numerical Approach on the Performance of Hybrid Building Structure using Mass Timber

Abstract

The most commonly used material for construction is reinforced concrete (RC), and the key element of it is cement. The production of cement requires lots of energy, and it releases a huge amount of CO2 into nature. In addition to that, the recycling process of concrete is very challenging, and not all types of concrete can be recycled. Therefore, as a solution for an economically advantageous alternative, the hybrid structure can be used. A hybrid structure contains different types of structural material for construction to provide better performance by taking advantage of their respective strengths, and it also presents a sustainable, durable, and better choice to conventional materials used in the construction. Considering the above points of view, this paper presents an analytical study on the performance of a hybrid building structure consisting of RCC as column, GLT (glue-laminated timber) as beam, and CLT (cross-laminated timber) as wall and roof. The modelling, load calculation, and analysis of the total hybrid structure under service load are carried out by means of STAAD PRO software. Based on the achieved results, the paper points out the suitable accuracy and fidelity of the hybrid building structure. This research further delves deeper into the complex ramifications of replacing a concrete building with a mass timber hybrid structure in terms of climate advantages. These benefits extend beyond the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. We show that although a shift to hybrid mass wood can balance the global carbon cycle, there are other associated effects that could increase, decrease, or neutralize that effect on climate. To drive this transformation in a climate-friendly path, practitioners and scientists will need to work together.