Innovative bio-composite systems for re-design of timber structures

In the context of the major concern on environmental impact of built patrimony, the design of structural elements needs to consider their entire life-cycle. This paper has the main objective the design of an innovative solution based on bio-composite materials to be introduced in the nodes of timber frame structures, considering also the compatibility of implied materials. The innovative joining bio-composite system and its performance are evaluated by means of numerical simulations. The design of the timber structure, the overlap length, the needed mechanical properties, thickness of the applied composite material and the wood/biocomposite interface properties must be performed in such a way to ensure the rigid node effect, and to enhance its safety, during the structural life cycle. The final results revealed that the proposed bio-composite system is leading to obtain a rigid node, followed by a better behavior of the wooden frame during its life cycle.