A finite element model was developed for glue-laminated wood beams modelled as an orthotropic material and comparisons with the classical solution as well as experimental results were made. The model was able to capture the buckling response and capacity of such cases and was extended to assess the influence of orthotropic constitutive properties on the lateral torsional buckling capacity of wooden beams.
Lateral torsional buckling (LTB) is a failure mode that occurs when the member is bent about the major axis of the cross-section where simultaneous lateral displacement and twist take place suddenly. For large span unsupported members, the resistance based on LTB may be less than that based on material failure. The current study aims to obtain critical moment for glue-laminated beams through experimental testing and finite element modelling.