**2.5 Cross-laminated timber**

In recent years, CLT has gained popularity in Europe and is gradually gaining interest in the rest of the world due to its strength, appearance, versatility and sustainability. The material consists of sawn, glued, and layered wood panels where each layer is perpendicular to the previous one. The layers of wood are joined at a perpendicular angle, allowing the structural stiffness of the panel to be obtained in both directions, similar to plywood, but with thicker components. This gives the panel great tensile and compressive strength. A physical drawing of CLT is shown in **Figure 9**, and the dimensions of CLT for different applications are shown in **Figure 10**.

CLT is a sustainable material because it is composed of wood, a renewable resource (often from reforestation), and does not require the burning of fossil fuels during its production. It has been used for infrastructure and support on large construction sites, as a form of concrete bridge, and even as a foundation for tractors in unstable terrain during dam construction. Due to its interesting appearance and structural strength, its potential in smaller structures has been noted. Currently, there are even skyscrapers built using CLT parts.

In fact, CLT is not in competition with the existing timber building sector, with its focus on linear timber elements, but a direct competitor of mineral-based solid building materials. This position is expected to be further strengthened. This is due to the fact that local timber species can be sustainably utilized to the benefit of all regions of the world.

When designing CLT structures, it is necessary to consider not only specific knowledge about CLT and joint design but also the whole structure, utilizing integrated knowledge and interdisciplinary thinking.
