Steel‐Timber Composite Beams with LVL: Toward Sustainable Structural Solutions

Abstract

The transition toward carbon‐neutral construction requires structural solutions that integrate sustainability, recyclability, and performance. Steel‐timber composite (STC) systems, which combine the strength and recyclability of steel with the renewability and workability of timber, present a viable alternative to conventional concrete‐based construction. This study focuses on STC beams with laminated veneer lumber (LVL) slabs, for which no established design standards currently exist. At the University of Luxembourg, a large experimental test campaign was conducted to investigate in depth the material behavior of LVL, to develop and test dismountable shear connections for high shear load capacity ‐ and finally 2 steel‐timber composite beam have been tested with a span of 10 m. On basis of these tests, a finite element model has been established in ABAQUS, which was calibrated against the experimental test data to be used to conduct a parametric study on cross‐sectional configurations and material properties. The results delivered optimized cross‐sections to improve bending resistance, delay plasticization of the bottom flange of the steel beam, and enhance overall moment‐rotation behavior. These findings contribute to preliminary design considerations for STC flooring systems and support the development of guidelines enabling their safe and sustainable application in modern construction.