Wood is one of the most intriguing structural materials and the only one that is truly renewable. Along with stone, wood is the oldest structural material on the planet and has been extensively used throughout human history. Due to its aesthetical value and positive environmental impact, wood has experienced a renaissance in construction. As a biodegradable, hygroscopic, non-isotropic material, wood presents special challenges for a professional and requires through knowledge ranging from biology to continuum mechanics. This state-of-the-art report reflects the current knowledge in the area of in situ assessment of the physical and mechanical properties of wood structures. Nondestructive, semi-destructive and destructive methods are described in a systematic manner where technology, equipment and limitations are discussed. Some of the discussed methods are used in other materials such as masonry and concrete. Most of the methods, however, are specific to wood and special qualifications are required to understand and apply these methods effectively. Existing methods are constantly improved and new methods are being developed. This report includes methods that are used in practice or have shown significant promise and have a body of knowledge that supports statements made in this report. This is a useable tool for professionals, researchers, educators and students

Structural Timber Design is a comprehensive textbook that provides students of building and civil engineering courses with a wealth of information and in-depth guidance on design methods to the recently revised BS 5268 : Part 2 and the proposed Eurocode 5. It is also an invaluable reference source and design aid for practising engineers and architects. The text provides a step-by-step approach to the design of all the most commonly used timber elements and connections (illustrated by detailed work examples), and encourages the use of computers to carry out design calculations. I t covers the characteristics of timber; a review of BS 5268: Part 2 and its requirements; the design of beams and columns of solid, glued laminated and composite sections and mechanical and glued timber connections. The book also reviews the proposed Eurocode 5 and its limit states requirements, including the design of flexural and axially loaded members and connections.

Wood Fracture Characterization provides a guide to the application of modern fracture mechanics concepts to wood materials used in structural engineering, which commonly involve discontinuities and irregularities. The authors cover the tests, data reduction schemes and numerical methods devised for wood structural applications, based on cohesive zone analysis, and used to validate experimental-based methodologies. Five detailed Case Studies are included to link theory with engineering practice. This important new text explains the basics of fracture mechanics, and extends them as needed to cover the special behaviour of an anisotropic wood materials.