A performance-driven methodology for CLT walls aligned with Chinese acoustic and thermal standards
摘要
Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is increasingly adopted in sustainable construction, yet its acoustic and thermal insulation limitations hinder compliance with stringent building standards. This study bridges this gap through an integrated experimental and theoretical investigations of nine-scale CLT wall configurations. While increasing CLT thickness from 105 to 175 mm enhances thermal insulation by 43% (reducing the heat transfer coefficient, Km, to 0.541 W·m−2·K−1), the acoustic gain was marginal (+ 4 dB in weighted sound reduction index, Rw), failing to meet Chinese standards for internal walls (Rw ≥ 40 dB). The research demonstrates that lightweight frame cladding synergistically optimizes both properties. Lightweight steel frames achieve an Rw of 47 dB (Class 6), outperforming equivalent autoclaved lightweight concrete (ALC) walls while halving surface density. Lightweight wood frames deliver superior thermal efficiency (Km = 0.424 W·m−2·K−1, Class III), reducing heat transfer by 17% versus conventional solutions. A novel 200 mm composite wall design integrating CLT with a light steel frame uniquely satisfies dual with Chinese standards (Class III thermal, Class 6 acoustic) without compromising practicality. Theoretical models, validated against measurements with high accuracy (with a maximum absolute error between predicted and measured values within 3 dB for Rw and 5% for Km), confirm these finding. This work effectively resolves the performance trade-off in CLT systems, providing actionable, optimized design guidelines that enhance material efficiency and broaden the feasibility of CLT in energy-efficient construction.