Performance of light-frame shear wall framed with Japanese lumber
Abstract
Recently, Hinoki and Sugi, two predominant wood species in Japan, had approval for their design values to be listed in the National Design Specification for wood-frame construction in the United States. However, their ability to meet the demands of a light-framed shear wall has not been studied. The objective of this study was to characterize the behavior of Hinoki and Sugi framed shear walls with conventional sheathing material, and compare the performance to Douglas-fir framed shear walls. Twelve light-frame shear walls were constructed, and one monotonic and three cyclic tests were performed per wall type consisting of Douglas-fir, Hinoki, and Sugi. Hinoki showed similar properties to that of Douglas-fir, while Sugi observed a lower lateral resistance and stiffness compared to the Douglas-fir. All walls in this study met seismic equivalent parameters, which allow the wall configurations used in this study to be compared to other wood-frame sheathed wall types.
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