The MOMENTUM project is a promising initiative that aims to extend the construction industry by introducing a new, efficient, versatile, and cost-effective connection for timber constructions. Driven by the urgent need for greener buildings, this groundbreaking connection developed by the Department of Structural Engineering at NTNU, is designed to resist moments (forces that cause rotation), making timber constructions more robust and safer. Subject to market approval, the connection encourages the use of wood in construction, promoting environmental sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, encouraging a circular economy, and enhancing living conditions. The main goal of the proof-of-concept project is to prepare technical documentation that will allow a full-scale demonstration of this innovative connection in a real-world setting. The project also aims to establish technical guidelines and develop a digital design and modeling tool. It will also focus on creating new competitive production processes for the industry to implement this new technology. The project is to demonstrate the superiority and cost-effectiveness of this connection to partners in the value chain. This will pave the way for the first commercial licenses, contributing to the increased use of wood, a sustainable material, in construction. In summary, the MOMENTUM project is set to provide the technical proof of concept needed by potential licensees and end-users. This will enable the construction of safer, more robust, competitive, and sustainable buildings, marking a significant step forward in the construction industry.  
 

The technology 

• A novel moment‑resisting timber connection consisting of a semi-rigid connection of inclined screwed-in threaded rods and steel coupling parts, connected with friction bolts. 
• It allows lower building times, reduced carbon footprint and better earthquake resistance 
• Greater architectural flexibility, easier assembly and disassembly and reusability of materials. 

The project in a nutshell 

• Prototype is verified 
• Verification of mechanical properties and fire design 
• Verify assembly and disassembly and reusability of materials 
• Seeking commercial partners