Cross laminated timber panels have the potential to play a major role in sustainable building construction, including as the primary structural flooring members

Federal Grant Award Summary

Villanova University received a $679,761 Project Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service under the Wood Utilization Assistance program (CFDA 10.674) on June 24, 2025, with a completion date of August 31, 2029. This research initiative examines the short- and long-term deflection behavior of five-layer cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels, with particular focus on composite systems where CLT is topped with concrete. The study aims to refine serviceability and strength design criteria for CLT floor systems to enable longer spans and reduced construction costs while improving their vibration resistance, acoustic properties, and fire resistance.

The project delivers research services and technical analysis that advance mass timber innovation and sustainable building construction practices. By testing CLT panels to failure following comprehensive long-term deflection testing, Villanova will generate data and refined design criteria that support broader adoption of CLT in structural applications. This research directly supports the Wood Innovations program's mission to strengthen forest products markets, promote sustainable forest management, and advance technological development in wood construction.

Often, cross laminated timber panels are topped with concrete to increase their vibration resistance, improve acoustic properties, and increase fire resistance. However, the behavior of these as composite systems has not been significantly studied, and refinements could be made to improve the efficiency of the system allowing for longer spans and reduced costs. The design of a cross laminated timber floor system is governed by either strength or serviceability criteria. For typical applications and cases where longer spans are desired, serviceability limit state governs design. This study aims to refine these criteria by examining the short- and long-term deflection behavior of five layer cross laminated timber panels which are tested to failure at the conclusion of the long term deflection testing.