Adaptive Timber Exoskeletons: Sustainable Seismic Retrofitting with CLT Panels

The use of timber for seismic reinforcement of existing structures is gaining significant attention, thanks to recent developments in engineered wood products such as CLT and LVL. This study, carried out within the framework of the RELUIS WP5 2022-2024 project, explores various reinforcement techniques including timber strong-backs, light timber frames sheathed with OSB panels, CLT panel coatings, endoskeletons, and exoskeletons. Each method is evaluated for its advantages, disadvantages, and applicability, with a focus on sustainability and intervention effectiveness. Results show that timber solutions offer significant improvements in the strength and deformation capacity of reinforced structures, presenting a promising option for integrated and sustainable seismic retrofitting.