Experimental and numerical analysis of single-strap adhesive joints combining thin-walled steel and fast-growing natural timber

Fast-growing forests are widespread distribution, but the relevant timber products are limited by insufficient strength and low reliability in the architectural structure. In recent years, the combination of rapidly growing timber and thin-walled steel to enhance structural performance has attracted attention, and connection performance is critical in ensuring a compelling combination. In addition, adhesive technology has potential applications due to its high efficiency and lightweight. Nevertheless, in light construction, the adhesion behavior between thin-walled steel and largethickness timber with relatively low mechanical properties has yet to be effectively studied and revealed. This study investigates the bonding properties of thin-walled steel and fast-growing timber single-strap joints by numerical and experimental methods. The SS joints` shear strength and failure modes were obtained by tensile tests, considering different adhesive and overlap lengths. In addition, stress analysis was performed using the finite element method (FEM) combined with the cohesive zone model (CZM) to explore critical issues such as damage variables, peak stresses, etc. Furthermore, the parameters such as overlap, the thickness of adherends, and edge distance were investigated. As a result, it is concluded that the bond of thin-walled steel-fast-growing timber is a special non-balanced connection. The study indicates that shear stress distribution is steeper than other strap joints. The other difference is that the right end in overlapping areas may experience higher peel stress than the left ends, which might delaminate the timber. Yielding phenomena may also occur at such weak timber ends along the normal direction. The bearing capacity of these joints is susceptible to the difference in stiffness between timber and steel. Joint performance can be enhanced by increasing the timber thickness and overlap length appropriately. The summary obtained from this paper can be a reference for applying adhesive in thin-walled steel-fast-growing timber composite structure systems.