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MATERIALS 43
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(AWC TR10), and the Canadian Standard (CSA O86).
Across all Glulam datasets, charring rate predictions agreed Mateus Andre
with tests within approximately ±20 percent, while AS/NZS
1720.4 consistently overpredicted charring and effective char
depth by around 40 percent.
In contrast, CLT demonstrates greater variability, primarily

due to adhesive degradation, delamination, and lamella
orientation, which influence heat transfer and post-fire capacity.
CLT data exhibited higher scatter, with effective charring depth
showing standard deviations of approximately 30–40 percent,
ZSL thickness averaging about 2.5 times the typical 7 mm
assumption, and residual stiffness commonly reducing to around construction, offering both structural efficiency and environmental
20–25 percent of initial values after standard fire exposure. benefits. It is produced by layering lumber boards at right
Overall, findings suggest that current standards adequately angles and bonding them with structural adhesives, creating
address Glulam performance but require refinement to capture a material with high dimensional stability and strength.

the complex fire response of CLT. Continued experimental The timber used in CLT is machine stress-graded and kiln-
research and targeted code development, particularly within dried to approximately 12 percent moisture content to ensure
the Australian Standard, are essential to improve reliability uniformity and durability. These panels are generally composed
and confidence in performance-based fire design for mass of an odd number of layers, most commonly three, five, or
timber structures. seven, with dimensions that vary according to the manufacturer.
CLT panels can reach lengths of up to 18 m, widths of 5
Context m, and thicknesses of 500 mm, making them suitable for use

Mass timber represents a transformative advancement in in floors, walls, and roof systems.
sustainable construction materials, offering a strong and Structurally, CLT provides a strong and sustainable alternative
environmentally responsible alternative to conventional materials to conventional materials such as concrete and steel. Crosswise
such as concrete and steel. layering provides excellent dimensional stability and allows for
It encompasses a family of large, engineered wood products the prefabrication of large wall and floor assemblies, which
that serve as primary load-bearing components in modern supports efficient installation and enhanced design flexibility.
buildings. In mass timber construction, timber functions as the Glulam is another versatile engineered timber product that
principal structural system supporting floors, walls, and roofs. is widely used in both architectural and structural applications.
Common mass timber products include cross-laminated Glulam members consist of multiple layers of dimensional

timber (CLT), glued laminated timber (Glulam), nail-laminated lumber, with each layer having the grain oriented parallel to
timber (NLT), and dowel-laminated timber (DLT). the length of the member.
Among the most prominent components in this system These laminations are bonded together using durable,
are CLT and Glulam. Each plays a distinct role in structural moisture-resistant adhesives that produce components with
design, and together, they enable architects and engineers to high strength, stiffness, and visual appeal.
create innovative, high-performance buildings. Depending on the manufacturer, Glulam members typically
CLT has emerged as a key innovation in modern timber range from 180 to 630 mm in thickness, 66 to 200 mm in