Moisture Induced Deformations in Glulam Members - Experiments and 3-D Finite Element Model

Experiments were performed on scaled glue laminated bending specimens to observetime dependent development of deformations during drying and wetting. Measurementsdetermined changes in the average moisture content and external shape and dimensionsbetween when specimens were placed into constant or variable climates. Alterations inthe external shape and dimensions reflected changes in the average value anddistribution of moisture and mechanosorptive creep in the glulam. The results are beingused to develop a sequentially-coupled three-dimensional hygrothermal Finite Element(FE) model for predicting temporally varying internal strains and external deformationsof drying or wetting solid wood structural components. The model implies temporallyvarying, and eventual steady, state internal stress distributions in members based onelastic and creep compliances that represent wood within glulam as a continuousorthotropic homogenised material. Thus, predictions are consistent with smearedengineering stress analysis methods rather than being a physically correct analogue ofhow solid wood behaves. This paper discusses limitations of and intended improvementsto the FE modelling. Complementary investigations are underway to address otheraspects of the hygrothermal behaviour of structural members of wood and othermaterials (e.g. reinforced concrete) embedded within superstructure frameworks ofmulti-storey hybrid buildings.