Experimental and numerical analysis of a full-scale timber-concrete-composite beam from simply supported to frame-connected

Numerous TCC (timber-concrete composite) systems have been proposed and studied in recent years. Most of the studies have focused on the behaviour of the timber-concrete shear connection and the flexural behaviour of floor elements. This paper presents the results of an experimental and numerical study comparing the behaviour of a simply supported (SS) beam and a beam connected in continuity to mixed TCC supports, named as frame-connected beam (FC). The objective of this study is to assess the potential benefits of using a semi-rigid beam-to-support connection in the overall design of the structure. Full-scale tests were carried out with 370 mm height and 600 mm width beams and 5.9 m span. The failure load of the SS beam was found to be equivalent to an uniformly distributed load of 97.8 kN/m. The maximum loads applied to the FC beam were 28 % higher, yet did not achieve failure because the loading device's limit was reached. The deflection of the simply supported beam was less than 1/335 of the span for a load of 36 kN/m, reducing to 1/776 in the frame-connected specimen. A three-dimensional finite element model has been validated and calibrated from the test results. This model has been used to evaluate the moment redistribution in the frame-connected beam which, in the case studied, allows the maximum stresses in the timber members to be reduced by up to 49 %. • TCC structural system based on a shear connection with perforated plywood flanges. • Shear connector used in floors, beams and columns allows a continuous connection. • Full-scale TTC beams have been tested as simply supported and frame-connected. • Frame-connected configuration allows to reduce stresses in timber elements up to 49 %. • Frame-connected configuration allows to reduce deflection of the beam up to 50 %.