Lisa Ottenhaus

Research on timber connections

Fundamental research is needed to characterise basic system properties of Australian timber products to update the Australian timber design standard AS1720.1. The following research gaps may be addressed:

1) investigate embedment strength of dowel-type fasteners in different Australian timber species and products; derive reliable regression models for strength prediction; characterise the effect of moisture on embedment strength; establish conversion formulae to harmonise half hole and full hole embedment tests in sawn timber, LVL, and CLT;

2) study of screwed connections in Australian timber species and products including engineered wood products; determine screw withdrawal parameters and develop analytical models to quantify the effect of boundary conditions, spacings, compound angles and group effect; investigate suitable screw arrangements to reinforce carpentry joints;

3) other fundamental experimental research on timber connections may be considered.

Formal education or equivalent professional experience in structural timber engineering is a non-negotiable prerequisite to undertake this research. If you do not meet this requirement, your application will be declined. At a minimum, applicants should have completed an undergraduate course on the basics of structural timber engineering with distinction. Applicants with a degree in timber are preferred. Previous research experience is desirable (e.g. BHon or Master thesis research).

A research scholarship may become available in 2024/2025. Visit https://www.advance-timber-hub.org/opportunities/ for more information.

Durability performance of timber connections in treated wood

Fundamental research is needed to understand the durability performance of timber connections in treated wood. This includes, but is not limited to, the behaviour of common fasteners such as nails, screws, and dowels in chemically treated timber, thermally modified timber and timber products, subjected to repeated wetting and drying, as well as fungal decay. A competitive scholarship needs to be obtained to undertake this work.