QuakeCoRE Seminar: A Resilient, Full-Scale 2-Storey Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) Structure (2025)

QuakeCoRE Seminar Series: A Resilient, Full-Scale 2-Storey Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) Structure: Design & Experimental Test

Presenter: Ashkan Hashemi (University of Auckland)

This Seminar was held on 13 June 2025.

Abstract:

This seminar will showcase the design and experimental testing of a resilient, full-scale, two-storey Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) structure, which integrates resilient rocking walls and tension-bracing systems as the lateral load-resisting systems. The test series was recently concluded at the University of Auckland. Throughout the testing program, several concepts of lateral load transfer and damping mechanisms were evaluated across a variety of scenarios and phases, and the results will be presented. The objective of the testing, as demonstrated by the outcomes, is to showcase and investigate a resilient timber structure capable of going beyond life safety, delivering full functionality and immediate occupancy after an event. The structure also aims to serve as a sustainable and cost-effective solution, relevant to real-life applications.



Bio:

Ashkan Hashemi is a Senior Lecturer in Structural and Earthquake Engineering at the University of Auckland, with expertise in timber structures and seismic resilience. He holds a PhD in Civil Engineering from the same institution and has led numerous research projects on energy dissipation devices and low-damage structural systems. Ashkan has a strong industry presence, having collaborated on real-world applications of his research across three continents. His work focuses on bridging research and practice, particularly in advancing the performance and repairability of mass timber and light timber framed buildings. He is actively involved with professional societies including SESOC, NZSEE, and NZTDS, and has received national recognition for his contributions, including the EQC/NZSEE Ivan Skinner Award.

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