Seismic Behaviour of Mass Timber Beam Hanger Connections

The need for more sustainable buildings has driven demand for tall mass timber structures in Canada. However, these structures must be designed to prevent structural collapse and protect human life in the event of a large earthquake. As a result, it is crucial that the structural members and their connections be designed to have sufficient capacity to prevent brittle failure and ensure life-safety during an earthquake. The goal of this project is to leverage the relationship between MTC Solutions and Queen’s University to advance the scientific understanding of how mass timber beam-column connections behave under earthquake loads, specifically focusing on pre-engineered beam hanger connections. This understanding will be developed by validating computer models that will be used to equip engineers with the tools and design approaches they need to ensure mass timber connections are safe under earthquake loads.

Faculty Supervisor:

Joshua Woods

Student:

Partner:

MTC Solutions

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Construction; Sustainability & the Environment; Forestry

University:

Queen's University

Program: