 | Composite panel construction is one way in which the European construction industry can adopt off-site methods of component manufacture, reduce environmental impact and improve the efficiency of the methods used and the actual buildings produced. The shortage of traditional skills reduces the ability of the industry to meet demands and impacts on the quality of the buildings. This shortage can be addressed by introducing a greater proportion of off-site fabrication |
| A review has been carried out of the commonly adopted dimensions of panels used across the European Community and the regulations in respect of testing and performance of load-bearing panels. The behaviour of panel components for example cement bonded particle board and polyurethane form has been individually assessed as well as their performance as a composite panel. We have developed a theoretical model for the behaviour of a composite load beaing panel. Testing of prototype panels and jointing systems for performance in fire has been an important feature of the work. |  |
