Wood-Based Materials

Although wood is a natural material with excellent mechanical properties, it has some weaknesses due to its biological origin. To overcome these weaknesses, previous researchers have developed various timber composite members and wood-based materials manufactured by gluing or connecting timber and small elements of wood. Now, to promote large-scale timber structure with a view to decarbonization, we will use the latest analytical and measurement techniques to provide theoretical support for fracture phenomena of existing wood-based materials and timber composite member; additionally, we will propose new combinations and forms of them on the basis of this analysis.

	Asst. Prof. (Special Appointment) SUDO Ryutaro E-mail: sudoryutaro [at] okayama-u.ac.jp  wood-based material/ timber engineering Directory of Researchers  　 Link to Homepage

Wood has the mechanical anisotropy and biological defects; moreover, wood-based materials and timber composite members are made by bonding or connecting multiple elements made from such wood. Therefore, their mechanical behavior is complex and difficult to predict. By combining experiments, analysis, and theory from various perspectives, we are finding ways to estimate the strength of wood-based materials and the connection based on the original properties of wood, and we are working to propose guidelines for structurally optimal material and structural design.