Structural performance of hybrid SPFs-LSL cross-laminated timber panels

The bending and shear performance of hybrid cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels made from Spruce-Pine-Fir (South) (SPFs) and laminated strand lumber (LSL) are examined. Four configurations of three-layer CLT were fabricated: all-SPFs control specimens, all-LSL specimens, hybrid specimens with SPFs faces and an LSL core, and hybrid specimens with LSL faces and an SPFs core. Bending tests were conducted to assess flexural strength and stiffness. Additionally, three-point bending tests were performed to assess shear performance. The incorporation of LSL in the core of CLT panels increased mean panel bending stress at failure by 23% through mitigation of rolling shear failure.