Material properties of palm bark Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) infill wall for earthquake-resistant reinforced concrete buildings: a preliminary investigation

Abstract

This study conducts a preliminary investigation to determine the material properties of Cross- Laminated Timber (CLT) made from the bark of unproductive palm trunks. One-third of the lower part of palm trunks, aged over 20 years, was used for this purpose. CLTs were created by laminating palm boards into three and five layers, each measuring 200 mm x 20 mm x 1500 mm. A chemical epoxy was employed for lamination. The palm stems were dried in an oven at 110°C for 24 hours. Test results revealed a water content of 6.79% and a specific gravity of 0.23 gr/cm3 in oil palm stems. According to ASTM D143-94- 2005 and JIS Z210-21118 standards, wood's acceptable moisture content ranges from 12% to 20%. Given its low specific weight and minimal water content, palm oil trunks, including infill walls, show promise for use in earthquake-resistant construction.