Mapping and analysis of scientific trends on the contribution of cross-laminated timber (CLT) to energy efficiency

Bibliometric analysis Scientometric mappingAs the construction sector is one of the largest sources of global energy consumption and carbon emissions, the search for sustainable building materials has accelerated in recent years.In this context, cross-laminated timber (CLT) has become a material attracting attention not only from an engineering perspective but also in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability, thanks to its low embodied energy value, carbon storage capacity, and thermal performance advantages.This study aims to examine the CLT and energy efficiency literature using bibliometric analysis and scientometric mapping methods and to reveal the quantitative growth, thematic diversity, and international collaboration patterns of the field.A total of 843 WoS-indexed publications were analyzed, and publication trends, collaboration networks, and keyword distributions were assessed using Bibliometrix and Biblioshiny software.The results reveal that the CLT-energy literature has gained significant momentum over the past decade, growing at an average annual rate of over 11%.Research is primarily focused on engineering and building technology, but increasingly intersects with sustainability and environmental sciences.Thematic analyses reveal a parallel development in the literature between structural performance-focused research and energy-sustainability themes.Unlike prior CLT bibliometric reviews that primarily emphasize structural and engineering performance, this study systematically repositions the literature around energy efficiency and sustainability, revealing thematic shifts and structural-energy research dynamics.It quantitatively demonstrates the relative dominance of structural research over energy themes and identifies emerging sustainability-oriented clusters within the CLT knowledge base.The findings of this study highlight the potential role of CLT in energy-efficient and low-carbon building practices and the implementation of climate policies, providing a strategic database for researchers, designers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.Overall, this study demonstrates that CLT is not only a structural solution but also a strategic material for achieving energy efficiency and carbon reduction goals.