Does the THERMOMASS Building Insulation System act compositely?
A strong bond between the concrete and insulation exists initially. However, the bond can reduce significantly over time. CTC therefore recommends that panels be designed as non-composite under service loads. It should be noted, however, that the connectors and insulation continue to carry shear forces between the two concrete wythes even after the bond has been broken. A combination of bending of the connectors and a compression/friction force system in the insulation resist relative displacement between the concrete wythes and help to support the weight of the face wythe.
