Enhancing the Thermal and Acoustic Performance of Cross Laminated Timber Panels through Perforation Technique

The increasing need for energy-efficient and acoustically optimized buildings has positioned cross-laminated timber (CLT) as a competitive material in sustainable construction. This study investigates the impact of perforation techniques on the thermal and acoustic performance of CLT panels produced from Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), Uludağ Fir (Abies bornmülleriana Mattf.), and Sessile Oak (Quercus petraea L.). Panels were manufactured in three- and five-layer configurations, incorporating perforation ratios of 10% and 20% in the internal layers. Experimental results demonstrated that increasing perforation ratios led to a decrease in thermal conductivity and transmittance, while significantly improving sound absorption coefficients. For instance, panels with 20% perforation exhibited a notable reduction in sound transmission, contributing to enhanced indoor acoustic comfort. These findings underline the potential of perforated CLT panels as multifunctional elements in both residential and commercial buildings. The study highlights the potential global impact of integrating such material innovations into sustainable construction practices, particularly in urban environments demanding high thermal efficiency and noise control.