Creep behaviour of densified European beech and Scots pine under constant climate

Thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) densification is a well-known procedure for improving the properties of low-density wood species, but long-term behaviour densified under constant load has not been reported and may restrain its use in construction. This study investigated influence THM on creep bending beech pine climatic conditions. The specimens were loaded three-point at applied stress level 35% ultimate strength 14 days 20 ± 2°C 65 5% relative humidity (RH), deformation was registered. doubled density, increased modulus elasticity rupture, reduced equilibrium moisture content compliance. results demonstrate that can be an effective method to improve short-term performance constructions.