Innovative Composite Structural Systems for Modular Tall Buildings

Modular or offsite construction is believed to shape the future of the construction industry as it possesses significant benefits over traditional onsite construction methods. However, most of its application are limited to steel or concrete buildings. Although steel‐concrete composite structural system has many merits over the steel and concrete systems, its application in modular buildings is very limited. This paper explores recent developments of composite systems for modular high‐rise buildings. They include modular units for resisting vertical gravity loads and lateral structural systems for resisting horizontal forces from wind and earthquake loadings and progressive collapse due to accidental loads such as fire, explosions and impact. Various inter‐module joining methods developed in the literature will also be reviewed. Finally, a case study of the most efficient connection is presented to explore its applicability to high‐rise modular buildings.