Evaluation of the elasto-resistant characteristics of CLT panels of elliotti-taeda pine from Misiones, Argentina.

Abstract

The use of cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels is expanding globally, mainly driven by European countries and North America. CLT is a high value-added product that stands out for its strength, prefabrication, and environmental sustainability. In South America, Chile and Uruguay lead the development of CLT. In Argentina there is still no commercial production, but a company from Neuquén, with advice from INTA Bariloche, developed the first panels. To evaluate their mechanical and elastoresistant properties, 6 specimens of 100 x 350 x 2950 mm were manufactured with 5 layers of 1” x 8” sawn boards of Pinus elliottii-taeda from Misiones plantations positioned perpendicularly between layers and glued with structural adhesive. The experimental tests recently initiated by the Civil Structures Research and Development Group (GIDEC) of the Technological National University Venado Tuerto, will allow characterizing the structural behavior of these panels.The results will be key to standardizing production, optimizing processes, and advancing towards the future commercial CLT production in Argentina, taking advantage of the availability of fast-growing plantation timber.