Cross-laminated timber (CLT) elements are frequently protected with semipermeable membranes during transportation and on-site assembly to mitigate moisture exposure. While existing studies mostly focus on the performance of intact membranes, limited attention has been given to scenarios involving membrane damage. Understanding the influence of compromised semipermeable membranes on moisture dynamics and the subsequent risk of biological degradation in wood is critical for ensuring the resilience of CLT structures. As part of the research project Sustainable Foundations for Timber Houses, funded by Vinnova and coordinated by RISE, experimental investigations were conducted to assess moisture impacts on CLT-based foundation systems. The findings contribute valuable knowledge applicable not only to foundations but also to other CLT applications such as joists and wall assemblies.
Definitions: Semipermeable membranes – membranes open to diffusion.
CLT-foundation – a slab on the ground where the concrete slab is replaced by CLT.
CT scanner – computed tomography.
Keywords: CLT- foundations, semipermeable protective membrane, moisture transport in CLT, moisture impact, biological degradation of wood, CT scanner
Authors
Irina Martynyuk
RISE, Research Institutes of Sweden, Sweden
Frank Schleicher
RISE, Research Institutes of Sweden, Sweden
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