SR336 Cross-laminated timber for building structures (2019)

Cross-laminated timber (CLT) has been the one of the latest and most significant types of engineered wood product developed for structural applications. In the last two decades, there has been some remarkable progress in the technology to use CLT in building structures. Although it arrived in the region later than in Europe and North America, CLT has quickly gained popularity within the engineering community in New Zealand.

There are significant challenges in New Zealand applications, such as seismic demands. Some research has already been done locally to provide guidelines for applications. A number of projects involving CLT applications have been completed. With increased confidence and a positive economic outlook, CLT is set to be one of the main engineered wood products used in the region in the near future. There is also potential for the applications to extend into emerging markets in Asia. Recent research initiatives taken to facilitate further applications are elaborated on here.