Compression resistance of confined timber stud walls

Hemp-lime is an insulating low carbon dioxide material that is produced from sustainable natural resources. The use of hemp-lime within the construction industry is a relatively recent development. Currently within the UK hemp-lime is used to form solid wall insulation in conjunction with structural timber studwork. Current design practice generally assumes that the hemp-lime does not contribute towards the structural capacity of the wall. This paper details research that has been undertaken to establish the compressive load enhancement provided to timber studs by encasement in hemp-lime. Laboratory testing was carried out on timber studs with and without hemp-lime and the results compared. It was found that the hemp-lime significantly increases the compressive capacity of the studs and prevents buckling from occurring.