Modern timber construction technology and engineering applications in China

Abstract

In the past two decades, increasing attention has been paid to using and researching structural timber in China. Imported dimension timber, glued-laminated timber and cross-laminated timber have recently been used to build homes, schools, shopping malls and stadiums, and substantial research has been undertaken on novel timber-based hybrid structures. This paper reviews the development of modern timber construction technologies and their engineering applications in China. Case studies of light timber-frame structures, glued-laminated timber structures, large-span timber structures and timber-based hybrid structures are provided. Future opportunities and challenges for the application of timber structures in China are discussed.