Monolithic “Unibody” Light-Frame Structures: An Integrated Solution for Multi-Hazard Mitigation and Building Energy Enhancement

This research investigates an innovative “unibody” light-frame design which utilizes the flexibility/versatility of fibrous composites in construction, as well as the sustainable feature of agricultural waste plant-fiber materials. Unlike conventional light-frame constructions, where ply-wood or light-gauge steel sheathings are installed onto the supporting frame though fasteners, the building envelope components proposed in this research were “cast-in-place” to form a monolithic conformation. The mechanical performances of the composing natural/synthetic hybrid fiber materials were investigated in this study, in conjunction with the feasibility of the associated construction method. Furthermore, the structural performances of this new structure form and its ability to resist natural hazards were studied through experimental tests and the results were compared to those of conventional light-frame structures. The results indicate that the innovative monolithic design has enormous potential to offer enhanced and tunable structural performance (i.e., structural integrity, ductility) of light-frame building structures, as well as to provide superior energetic properties of the building envelope.