New research identifies additional species for use in marine and freshwater construction
In This Series
- Assessment of the durability and engineering properties of lesser-known hardwood timber species for use in marine and freshwater construction
- Avoiding landfill through effective wood waste disposal and a shift in product focus
- Bracing for non-domestic timber trussed rafter roofs
- Cross-laminated timber: an introduction
- Environmentally responsible construction: Community wood recycling
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This report summarises the main findings of a collaborative research project funded by the Environment Agency and TRADA, which aimed to identify additional species for use in marine and freshwater construction.
The research examined the performance of 18 lesser-used species (LUS) tropical hardwoods, benchmarked against greenheart and ekki. Five lesser-used species were found to be suitable alternatives for use where strength is critical, with another 13 considered appropriate for use where strength is not critical.
Contents:
- Why we need to exploit lesser-used species
- Research summary
- Novel test methods
- Resistance to gribble
- Resistance to abrasion
- Resistance to shipworm
- LUS timber with good strength
- Options for when strength is not critical
- Need for trials
Suggested Reading
Specifying timber species in marine and freshwater construction
Historically, the UK construction industry has favoured a narrow range of ‘tried and tested’ hardwood timbers for use in marine and freshwater applications.
Over-reliance on a small number of species is not compatible within sustainable forest management, as certain species are being over-exploited. This is likely to reduce the security...
04/05/2015 | Wood Information Sheet
Assessment of the durability and engineering properties of lesser-known hardwood timber species for use in marine and freshwater construction
This collaborative research project between TRADA, the Environment Agency and HR Wallingford investigates the strength properties of five LUS - cupuiba, angelim, okan, tali and eveuss as an alternative to the frequently used Greenheart and Ekki.
In addition, this research report identifies marine borer and abrasion resistance of a range...
01/01/2010 | Other Technical Guidance
Making waves with LUS
TRADA Technology's Senior Technical Consultant, Dr John Williams, examines the suitability of lesser used species (LUS) for marine and freshwater construction, based on recent research.
Article from In Touch with Timber Issue 2 (Summer 2010)
01/01/2010 | Magazine Article
