Composite frames of wood and glass

Project

Large plates in glass glued to a timber frame are capable to stiff a building horizontally. The application of timber in building constructions can be pushed further in cooperation with glass due to steadily increasing demands towards an efficient realization of construction's stiffening. Construction of buildings with several floors reveal the advantages of this innovation. The integration of the horizontal resistance of these timber-glass composites in the frame structure offers technically and practically a deciding advantage for realising an ecological and economical building.

Economic advantages of the project

To be able to satisfy demands towards the structural concept of buildings, stiffening becomes more and more important. The efficient and economical use of timber is the principal idea of this research. By using glass plates, a well defined structural system can be braced horizontally. Structural potential of timber houses can be considerably increased by using light horizontal stiffening systems. Timber-glass composite systems satisfy quality criteria and offer ways of combination and variation. These prefabricated systems are also very economic. The importance of cooperation between industry and research is confirmed by the experience gathered in recent projects. The industrial partner Kurth Glas AG is looking for new markets to exploit. The enterprise Despond AG, improves its placing in this new market.

A new base for architecture?

This envisaged new technology, using glass structurally and statically allows to reduce or even to substitute systems, which are used nowadays. The use of glass elements strengthens the function of existing surfaces. Glass gained considerably in importance in the passed few years. It is very attractive in purchase at the moment  and also appreciated by architects.

Economic aspects

Integrated systems fulfill several functions at the same time: stiffening, spatial separator, acoustic separator, thermal insulation etc. and help to reduce extra costs. Work is limited concerning facade systems, since only one gluing is necessary.

Scientific aspects

In first row a numerical and empiric pre-dimensioning determines length and width of the specimen. With this information, the purchase of the required materials can be made. In cooperation with the ICOM the test stand will be used for six tests. Depending on the obtained results, it is envisaged to make complementary tests for bigger applications in building construction.

This project has been realised with the financial grant of the Environmental Federal Office and the collaboration of Dr. Klaus Kreher.

The personne responsible of this reasearch is Marcel Haasis.

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