The flat plate with its small hooks creates wood-to-wood connections with a shear strength of 1.72 MPa and a rigidity of 3.05 N/mm³ (150 kN/mm over a length of 1 m). Furthermore, shear forces are transmitted between two wood elements, which, when screwed together with TBS MAX screws, achieve performance values comparable to those of an adhesive joint.
Sharp Metal is a steel plate with tiny hooks that is just 0.75 mm thick. When this plate is placed between two wooden elements and is then subjected to pressure, the hooks generate a simultaneous biting grip in the surfaces of both elements. The result is a very strong and secure connection – entirely without any chemical reaction. This principle is known as dry bonding. Sharp Metal completely eliminates the use of adhesives. For the user, this means no curing time, no surface preparation, no temperature or humidity checks – and special knowledge or certification are not required either. 50 x 1,200 mm Sharp Metal plates are suitable for connecting mass timber, glue-laminated timber, LVL, or wood-based panels.
Sharp Metal ensures a rigid and secure connection, without any adhesives © Rothoblaas
Installation is carried out in combination with TBS MAX screws. With a diameter of 8 mm, extra-long thread, and large head, these screws were specially developed to penetrate wood and the Sharp Metal plate, thereby ensuring optimal grip and rigidity and flawless installation.
Based on tests carried out on construction sites and feedback from planners and users, three areas of application have emerged: the reinforcement of existing timber beams, the doubling of existing support structures, and the stiffening of mechanical connections. In combination with conventional screws or dowels, Sharp Metal substantially increases rigidity and reduces unwanted sliding under load.
Ribbed panels offer a more resource-efficient alternative to solid CLT panels and will play a key role in sustainable timber construction in the future. They offer a structural performance comparable to that of mass timber panels while using significantly less material. However, the conventional production of ribbed panels is complex: It requires the use of adhesives, pressing over long curing times, specific climatic conditions and, usually, industrial production environments.
Sharp Metal addresses all of these issues in prefabrication: no adhesive, no pressing, no waiting times. The timber elements are immediately load-bearing and aesthetically unobtrusive, and connections can be dismantled if necessary. This represents a quantum leap for construction companies, planners, and architects who value flexibility, sustainability, and efficiency.
