Theoretical and Numerical Analyses of Steel-timber Composite Beams with LVL Slabs

Recently conducted studies have shown that significant benefits are to be gained by joining steel beams and timber slabs. Steel-timber composite beams present a sustainable solution for the construction industry because of their high strength and stiffness, and lower carbon footprint and self-weight than steel-concrete composite beams. The behaviour of steel-timber composite beams is still being investigated to reduce knowledge gaps. This paper presents theoretical and numerical analyses of steel-timber composite beams consisting of steel girders and laminated veneer lumber slabs. The elastic and plastic resistance to bending were estimated analytically based on the elastic analysis and the rigid-plastic theory. The impact of the composite action, the LVL slab thickness, the cross-section of a steel girder and the steel grade on resistance to bending was evaluated. The load-deflection curve of the composite beam was obtained using a 2D finite element model, in which timber failure was captured using the Hashin damage model. The results of the numerical simulation were in good agreement with the ones of the theoretical analyses.