Executive Summary

The project investigates the development of biaxially load-bearing floor systems. By introducing prestressing the elements, force-transferring and moment-resisting connections can be created, enabling efficient load distribution also in the secondary load-bearing direction. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is inherently capable of transfers loads in two directions. In practice, however, this potential is rarely fully exploited, as the dimensions of CLT elements is limited by production and transportation constraints. To ensure load transfer in the secondary load-bearing direction, the elements therefore need to be mechanically connected, typically using self-tapping timber screws. The resulting connections are complex and allow only comparatively limited load distribution. Consequently, the construction of moment-resisting, demountable connections using conventional methods is complex and uncommon in engineering practice.

The project aims to address this gap by developing prestressed structural components. Particular focus is placed on the investigation of structural behavior, load introduction mechanisms, and the practical implementation of prestressing techniques for timber floor systems.

Consortium

DYWIDAG-Systems International GmbH

Technical University of Munich
Chair of Timber Engineering and Building Construction 

Project Team

Technical University of Munich
Chair of Timber Engineering and Building Construction 

Clara Hübner, M.Sc.
Prof. Dr. Gerhard Fink

Project Duration

Start: 1 September 2026
End: 31 August 2028