Project R-14851

CIRCOMP – Developing a circular steel-timber composite floor system through innovative and demountable shear connections (Research)

This project aims at the development and characterization of an innovative and efficient connection for steel-timber composite (STC) floor and deck systems designed for easy disassembly and reuse, supporting therefore the circularity of material use in the construction industry. The technological solution that will be developed will match the latest constructional needs and trends, such as structural detailing and design for less raw material consumption and minimized waste thanks to a circular cradle-to-cradle strategy, new straightforward guidance towards an increased use of environmentally-friendly bio-based materials in composite solutions and assessment of service life and durability. To achieve this goal, an innovative steel-to-timber connection will be developed, optimized and studied through experimental tests combined with finite-element numerical simulations, in addition to establishing and validating analytical design models. A mechanical characterization of the developed STC solution, including the impact of hygroscopic deformations of timber and a durability assessment, will be accomplished, ensuring both circularity and safety during the service life of the structure. A design for disassembly of the STC connection will be achieved, directly implementable at industrial level, contributing to a rapid transition to a climate-neutral and resource efficient construction industry by 2050.

01 April 2024 - 31 March 2026