Wood-glass composite facades

Growth and density in urban areas require the development of intelligent and resource-saving building systems for the "smart cities" of the future. The use of bonded wood-glass composite (HGV) structures can reduce the primary energy demand of buildings by more than 50%. The research project is investigating the potential applications of this new technology in multi-storey buildings and high-rises.

Critical aspects such as the combustibility of wood, fire flashover and the failure of structurally effective facade elements are being tested with prototypes in fire tests. Based on the findings, innovative fire protection concepts for building systems with HGV constructions will be developed, which will enable the Viennese population to meet the high safety standards also for large-volume buildings in urban areas.

brandRat ZT GesmbH and the Institute for Supporting Structures and Engineered Timber Construction (ITI) of the Vienna University of Technology are making a significant contribution with the research findings gained and the interdisciplinary services developed from them with regard to the requirements of future "smart cities" for innovative and resource-efficient building systems.

The application of the developed fire protection concepts will subsequently be extended to international metropolises in neighboring European countries.