This document outlines the basis of design for the performance-based design and nonlinear response history analysis of the Framework Project in Portland, OR. Performance-based design is pursued for this project because the proposed lateral force-resisting system, consisting of post-tensioned rocking cross-laminated timber (CLT) walls is not included in ASCE/SEI 7-10 Table 12.2-1.
Project contact is Thomas Miller at Oregon State University
Summary
Understanding how roof and floor systems (commonly called diaphragms by engineers) that are built from Pacific Northwest-sourced cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels perform in earthquake prone areas is a critical area of research. These building components are key to transferring normal and extreme event forces into walls and down to the foundation. The tests performed in this project will provide data on commonly used approaches to connecting CLT panels within a floor or roof space and the performance of associated screw fasteners. Structural engineers will directly benefit through improved modeling tools. A broader benefit may be increased confidence in the construction of taller wood buildings in communities at greater risk for earthquakes.
This paper begins with an overview of the state of the art in the design of multi-story mass timber structures and their lateral systems in low to moderate seismic regions. Boston, MA has been chosen as the location for a feasibility analysis of 8-, 12-, and 18- story mass timber structures. These building prototypes are used to compare the structural and environmental efficiencies and tradeoffs of replacing conventional concrete cores with mass timber braced frames and steel-timber hybrid frames. The lateral resistance of prototype configurations is evaluated through numerical analyses to understand in more detail the characteristics of an efficient mass timber lateral system. Finding an optimal timber gravity system configuration is followed by examining lateral resistance of the prototypes. The resulting designs demonstrate a practical approach to assist designers in selecting a lateral system during the early stages of conceptual design. This research was conducted in parallel with a related study for implementation of mass timber in affordable housing in Boston, enabling a comparison between composite systems and all-timber structures.
