Acquisition of Instrumentation for Mechanical Testing of Bio-Based Materials

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The proposal seeks support with a major investment in a servo-hydraulic instrumentation system (actuators, pump, hoses, computerized control system, support hardware, and force and displacement measurement transducers) to be used for medium load-range testing of structural members, components, and assemblies. It will enable more aggressive experimental and performance analysis and innovation in materials and system design. The horizons for educators and scientists in the departments of Forest Products and Civil Engineering will be elevated from single parts or small subassemblies tested under static loads to assemblies and complete light-frame structures tested under static and dynamic loading regimes. This experimental direction is essential to make progress toward improved structural performance and safety, mitigation of structural damages given natural hazard loadings, optimization of structural systems, continued innovation of bio-based composite materials, and advanced understanding of plant physiological/mechanical functions.