Primary goal

Timber connections are critical for building performance. In previous work, we examined the effects of repeated wetting and drying as well as fungal attack on the capacity of nailed connections of solid timber. These results were primarily applied and there is a critical need to better understand the environment around the fastener as it is affected by both moisture movement and fungal attack.

We will continue these efforts through the research of three postgraduates. Two at UQ are examining the effects of fungal attack on fundamental aspects of fastener behaviour including friction/densification. The third student is examining the effects of wetting on floor to wall connections in hardwood cross laminated timber at UniSC. The latter project is related to a similar program underway at Oregon State University with softwood connections. All of these projects are underway but will require another 2-3 years before the students complete their studies.

Key benefits

• Understanding the effects of decay on connections feeds into the service life prediction model.

Progress

This project commenced in 2022 and will conclude in 2026.

Sustainable Development Goals

This project works towards these UN Sustainable Development Goals:

• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production