Seismic analysis of crosslaminated multistorey timber buildings using linear and nonlinear static and dynamic methods

This paper investigates the seismic analysis of multistory cross-laminated timber (XLAM) buildings. The influence of different parameters such as wall geometry, vertical load level, friction, and, most importantly, connection stiffness, strength, and ductility is assessed. Linear and nonlinear finite-element (FE) analyses are carried out on a hypothetical 4-story case study building. The actual load-carrying capacity of the case study building is calculated with the nonlinear static pushover method and assessed using displacement-based design. The XLAM building behavior factors are then derived for different cases using a simplified method. Values in the range 2–3 have been obtained depending on whether monolithic or segmental walls (namely made of approximately 2-m-wide panels screwed to the adjacent ones) are used. Further nonlinear dynamic analyses carried out on a part of the case study building show that friction may have a beneficial effect on the seismic resistance of XLAM buildings. However, it is advised that its influence is conservatively neglected until further investigations are performed. Lastly, the importance of considering the overstrength concept in design of XLAM buildings is presented via a wall case study. Obtained results provide an important insight for both academics and practicing engineers in the FE modeling and design of XLAM buildings using different code-based approaches. This data is also crucial for the preparation of new seismic design codes on XLAM timber buildings.