Development of Durability Design Processes for Timber Structures

Abstract

Despite the fact that timber is such a versatile construction material, during this last century it has significantly lagged behind developments in steel and concrete, particularly in Australia. Whilst use of timber in residential house framing has been well established in both Australia and New Zealand since the 1940’s; for many years, concrete and steel were perceived as the only viable engineering materials for larger commercial and industrial structures. Many designers have perceived timber as a “temporary” material, despite the fact that many timber structures still functioning are in excess of 70 years old – particularly in infrastructure applications such as bridges and some wharf structures.However, concentrated research efforts, focused education programs and technology transfers from overseas countries over the past two decades, have facilitated the use of timber in non – residential markets. As a result, there has been considerable activity in both countries focusing on innovative development and application of timber in “engineered” structures. One current project (2002) that has major significance for designers and the end users of timber products, is the development of reliability based predictive modelling tools and procedures for predicting durability performance of timber structures. This paper presents an overview of developments and principles that will equip designers to design durable timber structures.