Numerical analysis of CLT shear walls using high-fidelity model: Connection to building system

This paper presents an improved user element (UELm) for cross-laminated timber (CLT) shear wall connections by modifying model (UELo) developed for light-timber shear walls. The improvements of the UELm are on post-peak and reloading phases, and utility of the proposed model is validated with connection and CLT shear wall test data. Parametric analysis, including vertical load, foundation stiffness, and window opening area ratio (WOAR), is conducted on different wall configurations. The bearing capacity and rocking stiffness of the shear wall are confirmed to be positively correlated with the applied vertical load and foundation stiffness, and the vertical load also benefits the self-centering capacity. The lateral stiffness of the shear wall decreases with the increase of WOAR, and the stiffness is calculated based on the finite element model. Finally, the two-story CLT shear wall building model is established and the comprehensive comparison of the model and test results is carried out. •More accurate CLT shear wall connection model in simulating post-peak phase and reloading phase.•Development and validation of CLT shear wall models with different configurations.•Lateral stiffness of CLT shear wall with window opening is quantified.•Development and validation of high-fidelity quasi-static two-story CLT shear wall building model.•Vulnerable area of CLT building is displayed by the stress distribution of the numerical model.