Evaluation of mass timber materials for military and commercial trailer decking

IRG/WP 24-41009

G Kirker, A Senalik, X Wang, K Ohno, R Arango, M Mankowski, X Xie, J Eskola, N Kamprath, S Karwaczynski, M Weaver

In this study, CLT trailer decking was manufactured to current military trailer decking specifications, verified using PRG320 performance criteria, and treated with either waterborne or oil borne wood preservatives. Preliminary results show adequate uptake of preservative solution and subsequent testing shows minimal effect due to treatment. Field durability tests are also being conducted of treated and untreated materials in tropical sites in Suriname and 8-month data is presented herein. Presence of gaps in the CLT layup have proven problematic as it presents a pocket for collection of soil and moisture that could promote fungal decay, or provide an ingress point for termite attack. In follow-up studies, additional panels will be fabricated, treated and coated with a randomized assortment of protective coatings and subject to weathering. The results of these studies will be used by the U.S. military to aid in the selection of durable materials to replace threatened tropical hardwoods.


Keywords: cross laminated timber, biodeterioration, southern pine, red oak, utility trailer decking, non-destructive testing

Conference: 24-05-19/23 Knoxville, USA


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