Experimental Investigations of Deconstructable Timber–Concrete Composite Beams

Abstract

In conventional timber–concrete composite (TCC) beams, timber joists and concrete slabs are connected permanently; however, the permanent timber–concrete connections can hinder repairing and reusing of structural components and accordingly it reduces the sustainability of construction. This paper deals with development and structural performance of a few novel deconstructable TCC connections that can facilitate recycling and reusing of construction materials. The structural performance of 16 different sets of novel deconstructable TCC connections under shear loads is investigated by push-out tests followed by bending tests on nine TCC beams under service and ultimate loads. The behavior of connections and beams are characterized and the TCC connections with the highest strength and stiffness and feasibility for construction and dismantling are identified.