In-situ compression stress-deformation measurements along the timber depth profile

Abstract

The paper presents a novel concept and a prototype of a diagnostic tool for in-situ assessment of timber in existing structures and buildings. The device enables direct determination of conventional compressive strength and modulus of deformation in arbitrary depth along timber profile. The measurement of the stress-deformation relationship is performed in a prepared hole of a very small diameter by means of a special small size symmetrical loading jack. Testing and verification of the new device behaviour during loading of wood along the fibres has been carried out on fir which is the most frequent wood species in European buildings. The comparison of stressstrain diagrams acquired by means of the new device with those measured in compliance with the European standard for testing of wood shows a very good correlation including the determination of the compressive strength values. This semi-destructive method causes a very gentle damage and can be also used for the assessment of historic timber structures. © (2013) Trans Tech Publicutions, Switzerland.