Simulation and Optimization of the Mechanical Behavior of Wooden Assembly Under Wet and Sunny Conditions

Wood is one of the most widely used natural materials around the world and across time. It was first used for houses construction and ships. However, one of the main drawbacks of wood is the constant need of maintenance especially when used outdoors with direct contact with water, sun, and wind. This training aims to find a solution through experimental testing and computational simulation optimizing the use of wood outdoors. It is proposed by Tecman Industry (Lebanon), a company specialized in wood and steel works as well as interior and outdoor contracting and decoration. We chose three types of wood (Iroko Teak, White Spruce, and Red Cedar) generally used in the kinds of applications we are looking for. Their mechanical properties under different environmental conditions are currently being studied with the adequate specimen types. In the near future, we will move on to the computational simulation under Abaqus where real structures, such as decking and windows, will be represented. The project is set to end mid-July.