Experimental investigation on axially-loaded threaded rods inserted perpendicular to grain into cross laminated timber

Abstract

This paper presents an experimental work on axially-loaded threaded rods inserted perpendicular to grain into the narrow face of cross laminated timber (CLT). Penetration length, loading type (tension, compression, fully reversed), and loading configuration (pull-pull and pull–push) were varied. The use of self-tapping screws as reinforcement was also explored. Stiffness under cyclic and monotonic loading, damping ratio, withdrawal capacity, failure mode, reinforcement effect, and influence of loading history were investigated. The experimental results highlight the high withdrawal stiffness and capacity of threaded rods embedded into CLT elements, and hence their effectiveness as fasteners for stiff timber connections.