It is reported on rigid moment and shear force resistant connections of glulam to concrete or steel abutments based on glued-in steel rods. The connections are especially meant for clamped columns and integral bridge decks and wide-span end-clamped floors. In order to prevent premature splitting failure of the joint and to enforce a rather even shear force distribution on spaced rods the issue of lateral joint reinforcement by self-tapping screws or/and glued-on plywood panels is emphasized. The proposed design equations are calibrated by results of an extensive experimental campaign, revealing that the new Eurocode EC5-1-1 is overly conservative regarding lateral forces and respective normal force interaction. It is revealed case study-wise that the investigated rigid joint configurations present superior rotational stiffness and load capacities vs. today´s primarily employed mechanical fastener solutions with slotted-in steel plates or grout embedment of the GLT column in bucket foundations. The study demonstrates a technically competitive and environmentally advantageous timber solution vs. precast concrete columns. It offers new options for hybrid timber-concrete applications for timber bridge decks and clamped wide-span floors.
