Author(s)

B. Kasal, M. Drdacky & I. Jirovsky

Abstract

Semi-destructive methods for evaluation of timber structures Bo ~asal', ~ . ~ r d a c k ~ ~ & I. ~irovsk~' '~e~artment of Wood and Paper Science, Department of Civil Engineering, North Carolina State University, North Carolina, USA 2 Institute of Applied and Theoretical Mechanics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic Abstract This paper describes newly developed semi-destmctive testing methods that can be used to examine the in-situ mechanical properties of timber structural members. The methods can be used to measure tensile modulus of elasticity and strength, density and moisture content. Special devices to extract micro-tensile and compression specimens were developed and tested in a laboratory environment. The technique gives direct measurements of tensile strength and modulus of elasticity of the material without compromising the integrity and strength of the structure under investigation. 1 Introduction Wood is the oldest structural material, and a significant number of tim

Keywords