Hybrid Timber-UHPC Structures for High-Performance and Low-Carbon Construction
Faculty Mentor Information
Jared Cantrell, Idaho State University; and Dr. Mustafa Mashal, Idaho State University
Presentation Date
7-15-2026
Abstract
Buildings account for more than one-third of global carbon emissions, creating an urgent need for structural systems that reduce environmental impact without compromising performance. This research investigates the development of an innovative Timber–Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) hybrid structural system in contrast to timber–Normal Concrete (NC) systems. While timber is renewable and exhibits low embodied carbon, its limited strength and stiffness restrict its use in high-demand structural applications. Normal concrete provides moderate compressive strength (3-5 ksi) and contributes significantly to carbon emissions. UHPC, by contrast, achieves compressive strengths of 12-30 ksi, allowing for thinner sections, improved durability, and reduced material volume. This study evaluates the structural performance and interfacial bonding behavior of layered timber-UHPC panels subjected to equivalent loading conditions. Through experimental testing and analytical evaluation, optimized interface strategies are developed to enhance composite action, flexural capacity, and spanning efficiency. The hybrid system’s performance is directly compared with timber-NC panels to quantify improvements in strength and stiffness. An embodied carbon assessment is also conducted to evaluate potential environmental benefits. The goal of this research is to develop a scalable, high-performance hybrid structural system that expands the structural capabilities of timber while reducing overall material use and carbon footprint. By integrating renewable materials with advanced cementitious composites, this project demonstrates how innovative hybrid design can contribute to more sustainable and resilient construction practices.
Hybrid Timber-UHPC Structures for High-Performance and Low-Carbon Construction
Buildings account for more than one-third of global carbon emissions, creating an urgent need for structural systems that reduce environmental impact without compromising performance. This research investigates the development of an innovative Timber–Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) hybrid structural system in contrast to timber–Normal Concrete (NC) systems. While timber is renewable and exhibits low embodied carbon, its limited strength and stiffness restrict its use in high-demand structural applications. Normal concrete provides moderate compressive strength (3-5 ksi) and contributes significantly to carbon emissions. UHPC, by contrast, achieves compressive strengths of 12-30 ksi, allowing for thinner sections, improved durability, and reduced material volume. This study evaluates the structural performance and interfacial bonding behavior of layered timber-UHPC panels subjected to equivalent loading conditions. Through experimental testing and analytical evaluation, optimized interface strategies are developed to enhance composite action, flexural capacity, and spanning efficiency. The hybrid system’s performance is directly compared with timber-NC panels to quantify improvements in strength and stiffness. An embodied carbon assessment is also conducted to evaluate potential environmental benefits. The goal of this research is to develop a scalable, high-performance hybrid structural system that expands the structural capabilities of timber while reducing overall material use and carbon footprint. By integrating renewable materials with advanced cementitious composites, this project demonstrates how innovative hybrid design can contribute to more sustainable and resilient construction practices.