Multiphysics Modelling of Timber-Concrete Composite Structures: A Meta-Analysis of Material Synergies, Coupled Phenomena, and Hybrid Structural Solutions

Girmay Mengesha Azanaw

doi:doi:10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11

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Multiphysics Modelling of Timber-Concrete Composite Structures: A Meta-Analysis of Material Synergies, Coupled Phenomena, and Hybrid Structural Solutions

Girmay Mengesha Azanaw^*

Published in World Journal of Materials Science and Technology (Volume 2, Issue 1)

Received: 14 May 2025 Accepted: 7 June 2025 Published: 25 June 2025

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Abstract

Timber–concrete composite (TCC) structures have emerged as a sustainable and efficient solution in modern construction, combining the compressive strength of concrete with the tensile performance and ecological advantages of timber. However, their hybrid nature introduces complex modeling challenges due to the interplay between dissimilar materials and multiple physical processes. This meta-analysis provides a comprehensive review of multiphysics modeling approaches applied to TCC systems over the past two decades, synthesizing insights from 48 peer-reviewed studies. The analysis spans structural, thermal, hygric, and time-dependent behaviors to trace the development of simulation frameworks and to identify prevailing trends and persistent limitations. A key finding is the gradual shift towards integrated hygro-thermo-mechanical models, which aim to capture the coupled effects influencing long-term performance. Despite advancements, significant gaps remain, particularly in simulating interface degradation, moisture migration, and time-dependent deformation under service conditions. The review categorizes dominant material pairings and evaluates connection systems, focusing on their performance in both static and dynamic contexts. A comparative stiffness indexing method is introduced to highlight the effectiveness of various modeling strategies and material configurations. Moreover, the review underlines the growing role of digital tools, including finite element techniques and data-driven approaches, in enhancing the predictive accuracy of TCC simulations. It recommends a more unified modeling framework that integrates experimental validation, long-term monitoring data, and AI-enhanced methods to better reflect real-world complexities. The study concludes with a roadmap for future research, emphasizing the importance of robust coupling algorithms, improved interface modelling, and the adoption of hybrid computational-experimental strategies. By consolidating current knowledge and pinpointing unresolved challenges, this review offers a foundational reference for researchers and engineers seeking to advance the modelling of hybrid structural systems. It contributes to the broader goal of optimizing TCC structures for resilience, sustainability, and performance in diverse environmental conditions.

Published in	World Journal of Materials Science and Technology (Volume 2, Issue 1)
DOI	10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11
Page(s)	1-8
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Timber-concrete Composite, Multiphysics Modelling, Coupled Phenomena, Hybrid Structures, Interface Mechanics

1. Introduction

The growing demand for sustainable and high-performance building systems has renewed interest in hybrid structural solutions, particularly timber-concrete composite (TCC) systems. These structures combine the tensile strength, lightweight nature, and sustainability of timber with the compressive strength and durability of concrete. This synergistic combination results in systems that are not only structurally efficient but also environmentally advantageous

[4, 1]

. However, the interaction between timber and concrete introduces complex multiphysics behaviors, including mechanical, thermal, hygrothermal, viscoelastic, and long-term creep effects. To fully understand these behaviors and optimize design performance, researchers have employed multiphysics modelling strategies that couple several physical phenomena into a unified computational framework

[2, 3]

. Despite individual modelling advancements, there is no consolidated meta-analysis that synthesizes these approaches and evaluates their effectiveness in guiding hybrid design.

This paper addresses this critical gap by offering a systematic meta-analysis of published multiphysics models of TCC systems. It emphasizes material synergies, coupling methods, and performance outcomes, with a view to informing optimal hybrid structural design.

2. Objectives

This meta-analysis aims to:

I. Systematically review the state-of-the-art multiphysics modelling techniques for TCC structures.

II. Identify optimal combinations of timber, concrete, and connection systems.

III. Evaluate coupled physical phenomena (e.g., thermo-mechanical, hygrothermal, creep-fire interactions).

IV. Quantify performance metrics across studies (e.g., stiffness, deformation, long-term behavior).

V. Recommend best practices and future directions for hybrid structural systems.

3. Methodology

Table 1. Summary of Meta-Analysis Methodology.

Step	Description
I. Research Scope Definition	Focused on multiphysics modelling of timber-concrete composite (TCC) structures across disciplines.
II. Database Selection	Used Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect to ensure broad and high-impact coverage.
III. Search Keywords	"Timber-concrete composite", "multiphysics", "coupled modelling", "hygrothermal", "interface", etc.
IV. Inclusion Criteria	Peer-reviewed journal articles (2005–2024), focused on simulation of TCC structures with physics coupling.
V. Screening Process	Titles, abstracts, and full texts screened for relevance; duplicates removed.
VI. Data Extraction	Extracted publication year, modelling type, coupling domains, material combinations, and citations.
VII. Quantitative Analysis	Trend analysis by year, modelling method, and physics domain using statistical visualization tools.
VIII. Qualitative Synthesis	Thematic coding of modelling approaches, gaps, coupling frameworks, and validation strategies.
IX. Visualization	Figures and tables used to map trends, challenges, and research directions across studies.

4. Results and Discussion

4.1. Overview of Selected Studies

A total of 48 studies were selected. Figure 1 shows the distribution of studies on timber-concrete composite (TCC) modelling by year and modelling type (FEM, analytical, and coupled multiphysics approaches) from 2005 to 2024.

Table 2. Summary of Key Studies on Multiphysics Modelling of TCC Structures.

Study

Modelling Type

Coupled Phenomena

Timber Type

Concrete Type

Connector

Validation

[2]

FEM

Creep-thermal

Glulam

Normal

Screws

Full-scale test

[3]

FEM

Hygrothermal

CLT

Lightweight

Notched

Experimental

[4]

Analytical + FEM

Viscoelastic

Glulam

High-strength

Dowelled

Lab & onsite

[6, 15]

Coupled FEM

Thermal-mechanical

LVL

UHPC

Adhesive

Numerical

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 1. Distribution of studies on timber-concrete composite (TCC) modeling.

4.2. Multiphysics Coupling Techniques

Multiphysics coupling techniques are critical to accurately simulate the behavior of timber–concrete composite (TCC) systems under various operational and environmental conditions. These structures inherently involve complex interactions among thermal, mechanical, moisture, and sometimes chemical fields, which must be accounted for using appropriate coupling frameworks. This section categorizes and critically assesses the coupling methodologies adopted across the reviewed studies.

4.2.1. Classification of Coupling Strategies

Coupling techniques in TCC models are broadly classified into three types:

a) Weak Coupling (Sequential Coupling):

Involves solving physical fields separately in a sequential order, often exchanging boundary data iteratively. While computationally efficient, weak coupling may fail to capture rapid or nonlinear interactions, such as transient thermal effects during fire or fast moisture transfer in unsealed joints

[8, 14]

b) Strong Coupling (Monolithic Approaches):

All governing equations from different physical domains are solved simultaneously within a single system matrix. This ensures better accuracy and stability, especially for highly interdependent processes like hygro-thermal-mechanical (HTM) behavior under long-term service conditions

[7, 6]

c) Partitioned Coupling (Iterative Multi-Domain Solvers):

Employs independent solvers for each physics with iterative data exchange between domains. It is ideal for using specialized software for individual phenomena (e.g., thermal and mechanical modules) while maintaining high fidelity

[5, 13]

4.2.2. Coupled Phenomena in Timber-Concrete Systems

Table 3 summarizes the common combinations of coupled fields observed in the literature and their respective application contexts. And Figure 2 illustrates the coupling frameworks adopted in the top 10 most cited papers on timber-concrete composite (TCC) structures. Each bar represents a paper and highlights whether it incorporates thermal-mechanical, hygrothermal, creep-mechanical, or thermo-hygro-mechanical coupling frameworks.

Table 3. Coupled Multiphysics Domains and Application Scenarios in TCC Modelling.

Coupled Fields

Application Scenario

Commonly Used Models

References

Thermal–Structural

Fire exposure analysis

Thermo-elastic FEM

[8, 12]

Moisture–Structural

Long-term deformation, creep

Hygro-mechanical beam models

[3, 11]

Mechanical–Fracture

Load redistribution near connection failures

Nonlinear fracture mechanics

[4, 10]

Thermal–Moisture

Coupled drying/shrinkage during curing or fire

Moisture transport + heat transfer

[5, 9]

Full HTM (Hygro-Thermo-Mech.)

Comprehensive long-term service modelling

Strongly coupled HTM finite element frameworks

[7, 6]

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 2. Coupling frameworks adopted in the top 10 cited papers.

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 3. Normalized stiffness index comparing 12 material combinations across all studies.

4.3. Material Synergies and Structural Performance

Results show that LVL-concrete and CLT-UHPC pairings with adhesive or notched connections outperformed others in stiffness and durability under long-term loading

[6]

. Glulam, while less strong, had favorable hygroscopic behavior and sustainability advantages. And Figure 3 is presenting a normalized stiffness index for 12 different timber-concrete material combinations used in TCC studies. This comparative visualization highlights performance variations across combinations such as GLT-Normal Concrete, CLT-UHPC, and Hybrid-Timber-UHPC.

4.4. Modelling Challenges and Gaps

Despite significant advancements in the multiphysics modelling of timber-concrete composite (TCC) structures, several persistent challenges and gaps continue to hinder comprehensive understanding and predictive accuracy. These limitations are particularly evident when considering complex environmental conditions, evolving material behavior, and nonlinear structural responses inherent to hybrid systems.

4.5. Inadequate Coupling of Physical Fields

As evidenced in Figure 2, most high-citation studies utilize only partial couplings—commonly thermo-mechanical or hygrothermal—without addressing more realistic combinations such as thermo-hygro-mechanical or creep-hygrothermal coupling. This simplification ignores the simultaneous influence of moisture content, temperature gradients, and long-term loading, which can significantly impact the interface performance and global behavior of TCC systems. Comprehensive multiphysics models integrating these interactions remain scarce.

4.6. Interface Modelling Complexity

One of the most critical yet underdeveloped aspects of TCC analysis is the timber-concrete interface, particularly when employing partial shear connectors or prefabricated composite panels. Many studies resort to idealized assumptions, such as linear-elastic or perfectly bonded interfaces, which fail to capture real-world behaviors like progressive bond degradation, micro-cracking, and time-dependent slip. Experimental validation of interface laws, especially under coupled environmental conditions, is still limited.

4.7. Lack of Long-Term and Creep-Influenced Models

Timber and concrete both exhibit time-dependent behavior—such as creep, shrinkage, and moisture migration—yet few models adequately simulate their combined long-term effects. Existing creep models are often simplified, unidirectional, or lack environmental sensitivity. Furthermore, the viscoelastic and viscoplastic properties of different engineered timber products (e.g., CLT, LVL, glulam) under sustained thermal-hygro loads remain under-investigated in computational settings.

4.8. Material Heterogeneity and Uncertainty

Timber, being a biological and anisotropic material, introduces significant variability in mechanical properties across different specimens, grain orientations, and moisture contents. Concrete properties vary based on curing, admixtures, and aggregate types. However, most numerical models adopt homogenized, deterministic properties, neglecting probabilistic characterization and material heterogeneity. This oversimplification may lead to misleading predictions under service and extreme load conditions.

4.9. Computational Cost and Scalability

Advanced multiphysics models—especially those integrating finite element (FE), finite volume (FV), or mesh-free methods—tend to be computationally intensive. This limits their applicability in design practice, where rapid simulation is often necessary. Furthermore, many high-fidelity models remain confined to academic demonstrations and lack user-friendly platforms, thereby impeding their integration into industry workflows or design guidelines.

4.10. Limited Experimental Validation and Benchmarking

A recurring limitation across the reviewed literature is the scarcity of benchmark datasets and full-scale experimental validation. Few studies provide calibrated results from laboratory or field tests under coupled loading scenarios. Consequently, the generalizability and reliability of these models in real-world applications—such as bridges, slabs, or floor systems—remains questionable. There is a pressing need for open-access datasets and inter-laboratory validation to support robust model development.

Table 4. Key Modelling Challenges and Their Implications.

Challenge	Implication
Incomplete multiphysics coupling	Missed interactions leading to inaccurate service life predictions
Oversimplified interface assumptions	Underestimation of slip, cracking, and failure mechanisms
Lack of time-dependent behavior modelling	Limited ability to forecast long-term deformations or durability
Material heterogeneity not considered	Overconfidence in model outputs; neglect of critical failure modes
High computational cost	Barriers to industry adoption and iterative design
Scarce experimental benchmarking	Weak validation, limited trust in simulation-driven design

5. Future Research Directions

The meta-analysis of multiphysics modelling approaches for timber-concrete composite (TCC) structures has uncovered significant progress in simulating structural behavior under diverse environmental and mechanical influences. However, several critical knowledge gaps and emerging opportunities merit focused investigation to push the frontier of hybrid structural solutions. Future research should consider the following key directions:

5.1. Expansion of Coupled Multiphysics Frameworks

As demonstrated in Figure 2, most high-impact studies primarily rely on thermal-mechanical or hygrothermal couplings. Yet, actual TCC systems operate under far more complex, time-dependent interactions—such as combined creep, shrinkage, moisture diffusion, delamination, and interface degradation. Developing high-fidelity multi-scale multiphysics models that capture these synergistic behaviors is essential. Particularly, novel formulations integrating thermo-hygro-chemo-mechanical coupling can provide more realistic predictions under long-term service conditions and climate stressors.

5.2. Material Optimization Through Meta-Modeling and AI

The results in Figure 3 reveal large performance variability across different timber and concrete combinations. Integrating machine learning (ML) algorithms and meta-models to predict optimal combinations of concrete grades (e.g., UHPC, HPC, geopolymer) and engineered timber (e.g., CLT, LVL, glulam) can accelerate design space exploration. Future studies should focus on data-driven surrogate modelling, Bayesian optimization, and inverse analysis frameworks to streamline the design of TCC systems for enhanced stiffness, durability, and sustainability.

5.3. Interface Characterization and Bond Modelling

The timber-concrete interface plays a pivotal role in structural performance and long-term durability. Despite its importance, many modelling studies simplify interface behaviors as perfect or linear-elastic. Advanced characterization techniques (e.g., nanoindentation, digital image correlation, acoustic emission) coupled with nonlinear bond-slip models must be incorporated in multiphysics simulations. Future research should explore time-variant interface mechanics under environmental cycles (wetting–drying, freezing–thawing).

5.4. Probabilistic and Reliability-Based Modelling

Current deterministic multiphysics models are insufficient for capturing the stochastic nature of material behavior, moisture gradients, and loading conditions. The next generation of research should embed uncertainty quantification, reliability analysis, and probabilistic degradation models within multiphysics frameworks. This can improve risk-informed decision-making and contribute to performance-based design codes for TCC structures.

5.5. Lifecycle and Sustainability Integration

Timber-concrete composites are inherently more sustainable than traditional systems. However, whole-life modelling integrating carbon footprint, embodied energy, and end-of-life recyclability remains underdeveloped. Future efforts must explore integrated environmental-performance multiphysics models, incorporating life cycle assessment (LCA) within structural simulations. This can aid in selecting material combinations that maximize both structural efficiency and ecological performance.

5.6. Experimental Validation and Benchmarking

Although multiphysics models have evolved, validation against full-scale experimental data remains limited. Establishing open-access TCC benchmark databases, supported by collaborative testing campaigns, is crucial for model calibration and generalization. Further, real-time hybrid simulation and digital twin technologies should be harnessed to validate and update multiphysics models in situ.

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 4. Summary Roadmap of Future Research Directions.

6. Conclusion

This meta-analysis has critically investigated the state-of-the-art in multiphysics modelling of timber-concrete composite (TCC) structures, with a particular emphasis on hybrid material systems, coupled phenomena, and computational synergies. Drawing on a comprehensive dataset of published studies, the review systematically analyzed how material combinations, interface dynamics, and environmental interactions are modelled across diverse research contributions.

The analysis of modelling trends (Figure 1) shows a clear evolution from simplified mechanical models to more integrated multiphysics frameworks, although the adoption of advanced couplings remains limited to a subset of high-impact studies (Figure 2). The stiffness index comparison (Figure 3) demonstrates substantial variability among 12 common material combinations, underlining the importance of optimal material pairing in TCC systems. This finding reinforces the need for data-driven and performance-based approaches to material selection. Moreover, the roadmap outlined in Figure 4 and Section 5 identifies five strategic research directions: (1) development of high-fidelity, fully coupled multiphysics frameworks; (2) AI-enabled material optimization; (3) enhanced modelling of time-dependent interface behavior; (4) incorporation of probabilistic reliability techniques; and (5) integration of lifecycle sustainability metrics into structural modelling.

Ultimately, the study urges for paradigm shift in the analysis of TCC structures—beyond conventional methods to incorporate integrated, validated, and sustainability-informed multiphysics modelling. Such a shift is not only vital for improving structural performance and resilience but also for aligning with broader goals in circular construction, low-carbon design, and intelligent infrastructure. As timber-concrete hybrids continue to gain traction in both academic and practical domains, this synthesis offers a foundation for future creativity, standardization, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Abbreviations

TCC	Timber-concrete Composite
FEM	Finite Element Method
LCA	Life Cycle Assessment
UHPC	Ultra-High-Performance Concrete
AI	Artificial Intelligence

Data Access Statement and Material Availability

The adequate resources of this article are publicly accessible.

Authors Contributions

Girmay Mengesha Azanaw is the sole author. The author read and approved the final manuscript.

Funding

This article has not been funded by any organizations or agencies. This independence ensures that the research is conducted with objectivity and without any external influence.

Conflicts of Interest

The author declares no conflicts of interest.

References

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[3]	Lukaszewska, E., Johnsson, H., & Fragiacomo, M. (2008). Performance of composite timber–concrete floors under long-term loading. Engineering Structures, 30(3), 685–693. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engstruct.2007.05.014
[4]	Dias, A. M., et al. (2016). Experimental and numerical study on timber–concrete composite connections. Construction and Building Materials, 102, 1093–1102. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2015.10.187
[5]	Hassanieh, A., et al. (2017). Thermo-mechanical behavior of TCCs under fire. Fire Safety Journal, 91, 653–662. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.firesaf.2017.03.074
[6]	Nguyen, N. D., et al. (2020). Hybrid TCC structures with ultra-high-performance concrete: Modelling and experimental validation. Construction and Building Materials, 258, 120391. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2020.120391
[7]	Yeoh, D., Fragiacomo, M., & De Franceschi, M. (2011). Moisture effects in timber–concrete composites. Materials and Structures, 44(8), 1487–1501. https://doi.org/10.1617/s11527-011-9716-5
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[10]	Movaffaghi, H., Pyykkö, J., & Yitmen, I. (2020). Value-Driven Design Approach for Optimal Long-Span Timber-Concrete Composite Floor in Multi-Storey Wooden Residential Buildings. Civil Engineering and Environmental Systems, 37(2), 100–116. https://doi.org/10.1080/10286608.2020.1808888
[11]	Sebastian, W., Webb, S., & Nagree, H. S. (2020). Orthogonal Distribution and Dynamic Amplification Characteristics of Partially Prefabricated Timber-Concrete Composites. Engineering Structures, 219, 110693. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engstruct.2020.110693
[12]	Zhang, X., Hu, X., Gong, H., Zhang, J., Lv, Z., & Hong, W. (2020). Experimental Study on the Impact Sound Insulation of Cross Laminated Timber and Timber-Concrete Composite Floors. Applied Acoustics, 161, 107173. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apacoust.2020.107173
[13]	Frangi, A., & Fontana, M. (2001). Fire Performance of Timber-Concrete Composite Slabs. Fire Safety Journal, 36(8), 739–751. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0379-7112(01)00030-5
[14]	Oudjene, M., & Khelifa, M. (2010). Finite Element Modelling of the Nonlinear Behaviour of Timber-Concrete Composite Beams. Engineering Structures, 32(6), 1650–1659. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engstruct.2010.02.015
[15]	Ceccotti, A., Fragiacomo, M., & Giordano, S. (2007). "Long-term and collapse tests on a timber-concrete composite beam with glued-in connection." Materials and Structures, 40(1), 15–25. https://doi.org/10.1617/s11527-006-9127-0

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Azanaw, G. M. (2025). Multiphysics Modelling of Timber-Concrete Composite Structures: A Meta-Analysis of Material Synergies, Coupled Phenomena, and Hybrid Structural Solutions. World Journal of Materials Science and Technology, 2(1), 1-8. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11

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Azanaw, G. M. Multiphysics Modelling of Timber-Concrete Composite Structures: A Meta-Analysis of Material Synergies, Coupled Phenomena, and Hybrid Structural Solutions. World J. Mater. Sci. Technol. 2025, 2(1), 1-8. doi: 10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11

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Azanaw GM. Multiphysics Modelling of Timber-Concrete Composite Structures: A Meta-Analysis of Material Synergies, Coupled Phenomena, and Hybrid Structural Solutions. World J Mater Sci Technol. 2025;2(1):1-8. doi: 10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11

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@article{10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11,
  author = {Girmay Mengesha Azanaw},
  title = {Multiphysics Modelling of Timber-Concrete Composite Structures: A Meta-Analysis of Material Synergies, Coupled Phenomena, and Hybrid Structural Solutions},
  journal = {World Journal of Materials Science and Technology},
  volume = {2},
  number = {1},
  pages = {1-8},
  doi = {10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.wjmst.20250201.11},
  abstract = {Timber–concrete composite (TCC) structures have emerged as a sustainable and efficient solution in modern construction, combining the compressive strength of concrete with the tensile performance and ecological advantages of timber. However, their hybrid nature introduces complex modeling challenges due to the interplay between dissimilar materials and multiple physical processes. This meta-analysis provides a comprehensive review of multiphysics modeling approaches applied to TCC systems over the past two decades, synthesizing insights from 48 peer-reviewed studies. The analysis spans structural, thermal, hygric, and time-dependent behaviors to trace the development of simulation frameworks and to identify prevailing trends and persistent limitations. A key finding is the gradual shift towards integrated hygro-thermo-mechanical models, which aim to capture the coupled effects influencing long-term performance. Despite advancements, significant gaps remain, particularly in simulating interface degradation, moisture migration, and time-dependent deformation under service conditions. The review categorizes dominant material pairings and evaluates connection systems, focusing on their performance in both static and dynamic contexts. A comparative stiffness indexing method is introduced to highlight the effectiveness of various modeling strategies and material configurations. Moreover, the review underlines the growing role of digital tools, including finite element techniques and data-driven approaches, in enhancing the predictive accuracy of TCC simulations. It recommends a more unified modeling framework that integrates experimental validation, long-term monitoring data, and AI-enhanced methods to better reflect real-world complexities. The study concludes with a roadmap for future research, emphasizing the importance of robust coupling algorithms, improved interface modelling, and the adoption of hybrid computational-experimental strategies. By consolidating current knowledge and pinpointing unresolved challenges, this review offers a foundational reference for researchers and engineers seeking to advance the modelling of hybrid structural systems. It contributes to the broader goal of optimizing TCC structures for resilience, sustainability, and performance in diverse environmental conditions.},
 year = {2025}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - Multiphysics Modelling of Timber-Concrete Composite Structures: A Meta-Analysis of Material Synergies, Coupled Phenomena, and Hybrid Structural Solutions
AU  - Girmay Mengesha Azanaw
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PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11
DO  - 10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11
T2  - World Journal of Materials Science and Technology
JF  - World Journal of Materials Science and Technology
JO  - World Journal of Materials Science and Technology
SP  - 1
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UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11
AB  - Timber–concrete composite (TCC) structures have emerged as a sustainable and efficient solution in modern construction, combining the compressive strength of concrete with the tensile performance and ecological advantages of timber. However, their hybrid nature introduces complex modeling challenges due to the interplay between dissimilar materials and multiple physical processes. This meta-analysis provides a comprehensive review of multiphysics modeling approaches applied to TCC systems over the past two decades, synthesizing insights from 48 peer-reviewed studies. The analysis spans structural, thermal, hygric, and time-dependent behaviors to trace the development of simulation frameworks and to identify prevailing trends and persistent limitations. A key finding is the gradual shift towards integrated hygro-thermo-mechanical models, which aim to capture the coupled effects influencing long-term performance. Despite advancements, significant gaps remain, particularly in simulating interface degradation, moisture migration, and time-dependent deformation under service conditions. The review categorizes dominant material pairings and evaluates connection systems, focusing on their performance in both static and dynamic contexts. A comparative stiffness indexing method is introduced to highlight the effectiveness of various modeling strategies and material configurations. Moreover, the review underlines the growing role of digital tools, including finite element techniques and data-driven approaches, in enhancing the predictive accuracy of TCC simulations. It recommends a more unified modeling framework that integrates experimental validation, long-term monitoring data, and AI-enhanced methods to better reflect real-world complexities. The study concludes with a roadmap for future research, emphasizing the importance of robust coupling algorithms, improved interface modelling, and the adoption of hybrid computational-experimental strategies. By consolidating current knowledge and pinpointing unresolved challenges, this review offers a foundational reference for researchers and engineers seeking to advance the modelling of hybrid structural systems. It contributes to the broader goal of optimizing TCC structures for resilience, sustainability, and performance in diverse environmental conditions.
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Author Information

Girmay Mengesha Azanaw

Civil Engineering Department, Institute of Technology, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia

Biography: Girmay Mengesha Azanaw, is a Lecturer at Aksum University until February 2024 and currently, he is working at the University of Gondar, Institute of Technology, Department of Civil Engineering, and Gondar, Ethiopia. He did his M.Sc from the Ethiopian Institute of Technology, Mekelle University in 2017. He received a B.Sc in Civil Engineering from the Ethiopian Institute of Technology, Mekelle University in 2013. He published different research paper in an International Journal. His research interests include developing digital twin for the Application of structural engineering and structural health monitoring system and many more.

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http://orcid.org/0009-0009-7187-6572

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Azanaw, G. M. (2025). Multiphysics Modelling of Timber-Concrete Composite Structures: A Meta-Analysis of Material Synergies, Coupled Phenomena, and Hybrid Structural Solutions. World Journal of Materials Science and Technology, 2(1), 1-8. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11

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Azanaw, G. M. Multiphysics Modelling of Timber-Concrete Composite Structures: A Meta-Analysis of Material Synergies, Coupled Phenomena, and Hybrid Structural Solutions. World J. Mater. Sci. Technol. 2025, 2(1), 1-8. doi: 10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11

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Azanaw GM. Multiphysics Modelling of Timber-Concrete Composite Structures: A Meta-Analysis of Material Synergies, Coupled Phenomena, and Hybrid Structural Solutions. World J Mater Sci Technol. 2025;2(1):1-8. doi: 10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11

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@article{10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11,
  author = {Girmay Mengesha Azanaw},
  title = {Multiphysics Modelling of Timber-Concrete Composite Structures: A Meta-Analysis of Material Synergies, Coupled Phenomena, and Hybrid Structural Solutions},
  journal = {World Journal of Materials Science and Technology},
  volume = {2},
  number = {1},
  pages = {1-8},
  doi = {10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.wjmst.20250201.11},
  abstract = {Timber–concrete composite (TCC) structures have emerged as a sustainable and efficient solution in modern construction, combining the compressive strength of concrete with the tensile performance and ecological advantages of timber. However, their hybrid nature introduces complex modeling challenges due to the interplay between dissimilar materials and multiple physical processes. This meta-analysis provides a comprehensive review of multiphysics modeling approaches applied to TCC systems over the past two decades, synthesizing insights from 48 peer-reviewed studies. The analysis spans structural, thermal, hygric, and time-dependent behaviors to trace the development of simulation frameworks and to identify prevailing trends and persistent limitations. A key finding is the gradual shift towards integrated hygro-thermo-mechanical models, which aim to capture the coupled effects influencing long-term performance. Despite advancements, significant gaps remain, particularly in simulating interface degradation, moisture migration, and time-dependent deformation under service conditions. The review categorizes dominant material pairings and evaluates connection systems, focusing on their performance in both static and dynamic contexts. A comparative stiffness indexing method is introduced to highlight the effectiveness of various modeling strategies and material configurations. Moreover, the review underlines the growing role of digital tools, including finite element techniques and data-driven approaches, in enhancing the predictive accuracy of TCC simulations. It recommends a more unified modeling framework that integrates experimental validation, long-term monitoring data, and AI-enhanced methods to better reflect real-world complexities. The study concludes with a roadmap for future research, emphasizing the importance of robust coupling algorithms, improved interface modelling, and the adoption of hybrid computational-experimental strategies. By consolidating current knowledge and pinpointing unresolved challenges, this review offers a foundational reference for researchers and engineers seeking to advance the modelling of hybrid structural systems. It contributes to the broader goal of optimizing TCC structures for resilience, sustainability, and performance in diverse environmental conditions.},
 year = {2025}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - Multiphysics Modelling of Timber-Concrete Composite Structures: A Meta-Analysis of Material Synergies, Coupled Phenomena, and Hybrid Structural Solutions
AU  - Girmay Mengesha Azanaw
Y1  - 2025/06/25
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11
DO  - 10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11
T2  - World Journal of Materials Science and Technology
JF  - World Journal of Materials Science and Technology
JO  - World Journal of Materials Science and Technology
SP  - 1
EP  - 8
PB  - Science Publishing Group
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.wjmst.20250201.11
AB  - Timber–concrete composite (TCC) structures have emerged as a sustainable and efficient solution in modern construction, combining the compressive strength of concrete with the tensile performance and ecological advantages of timber. However, their hybrid nature introduces complex modeling challenges due to the interplay between dissimilar materials and multiple physical processes. This meta-analysis provides a comprehensive review of multiphysics modeling approaches applied to TCC systems over the past two decades, synthesizing insights from 48 peer-reviewed studies. The analysis spans structural, thermal, hygric, and time-dependent behaviors to trace the development of simulation frameworks and to identify prevailing trends and persistent limitations. A key finding is the gradual shift towards integrated hygro-thermo-mechanical models, which aim to capture the coupled effects influencing long-term performance. Despite advancements, significant gaps remain, particularly in simulating interface degradation, moisture migration, and time-dependent deformation under service conditions. The review categorizes dominant material pairings and evaluates connection systems, focusing on their performance in both static and dynamic contexts. A comparative stiffness indexing method is introduced to highlight the effectiveness of various modeling strategies and material configurations. Moreover, the review underlines the growing role of digital tools, including finite element techniques and data-driven approaches, in enhancing the predictive accuracy of TCC simulations. It recommends a more unified modeling framework that integrates experimental validation, long-term monitoring data, and AI-enhanced methods to better reflect real-world complexities. The study concludes with a roadmap for future research, emphasizing the importance of robust coupling algorithms, improved interface modelling, and the adoption of hybrid computational-experimental strategies. By consolidating current knowledge and pinpointing unresolved challenges, this review offers a foundational reference for researchers and engineers seeking to advance the modelling of hybrid structural systems. It contributes to the broader goal of optimizing TCC structures for resilience, sustainability, and performance in diverse environmental conditions.
VL  - 2
IS  - 1
ER  -

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