Microwave nondestructive testing methods are fast, contactless, accurate and continuous techniques for the evaluation of moisture

content, slope-of-grain, density of knots and specific gravity of timber. Dielectric properties of timber are determined by these factors. We describe how the dielectric properties were deduced from reflection and transmission coefficient measurements of Malaysian timber specimens using a freespace measurement system in the frequency range 8-12.5 GHz. Dielectric properties were evaluated over different angles between the electric field and the direction of grain. Relationships between density, modulus of elasticity, strength, grain angle (angle between the direction of grain and electric field) and dielectric properties of Malaysian timber were established Wood-Based Composites

Machine stress rating, nondestructive measurements of the stiffness of a piece of lumber to assign it to an established grade. They accomplish this by measuring the bending deflection resulting from a known load or by measuring the load required to accomplish a given amount of deflection. sonic spectral analysis techniques they developed and used for the inspection of wood structures Research using noncontact scanning technology with conventional MSR systems is yielding encouraging results. This research has been aimed at providing more accurate estimates of the strength of lumber products and promises to significantly enhance the use of lumber in engineered applications (Bechtel and Allen 1987, Cramer and McDonald 1989). Acoustic emission techniques have also been investigated for use in decay detection. Considerable effort is also being devoted to developing tools for low-cost MSR systems (Ross et al. 1991). This effort couples relatively inexpensive personal computer technologies and transverse vibration NDT techniques by innovative software programming. Tools developed from this effort promise to yield MSR systems at costs considerably lower than the costs of those currently used. This will make MSR lumber grading available to a wider range of wood products manufacturers and users.

Combined non-destructive and destructive tests for the mechanical characterization of old structural timber elements non-destructive methods (NDT)

hygrometric tests evaluation of the moisture content of the wood, which severely affects its mechanical properties and its susceptibility to degradation by decay

ultrasonic investigations definition of a direct relationship between the stress wave speed and the elastic properties of the material, based on the theory of acoustic wave propagation

sclerometric tests assessment of the material hardness and superficial consistence by the penetration depth of a blunt pin, fired into the wood

resistographic measurements detection of internal defects and density variations by means of measure of drilling resistance along the path of a small needle inserted into the wood destructive methods (DT)

compression tests parallel to the grain (14 specimens type C) determination of the modulus of elasticity (Ec,0) and strength (fc,0) in compression

 bending tests (10 specimens type B) determination of the local (Em,l) and global (Em,g) modulus of elasticity, together with bending strength (fm)

According to the April issue of the BBC magazine bamboo is being "hailed as the 21st century timber Bamboo is being hailed as a new super material, with uses ranging from textiles to construction. With hardwood resources diminishing, industries and consumers alike have turned to bamboo as an alternative source of quality raw material. In fact, bamboo is a consistent favorite within its class for its unique combination of sustainability and high value in the market. Aim of Research: The aim of research is to formulate Grading Standards for Bamboo. With hardwood resources diminishing, industries and consumers are likely to turn to bamboo as an alternative material and it has been hailed as the 21st century timber. Grading is important to characterize the varia