Towards a national standard for reclaimed glued laminated timber (GLT)

In this paper, background knowledge about the production of glued laminated timber (GLT) and the history of adhesive use in Norway, as well as practical experience from two case studies (Set I and Set II) are compiled. GLT is considered highly relevant for re-use due to its large timber volume, even in individual buildings, its high added value compared to structural timber, sophisticated design, high adhesive costs and the amount of stored carbon. Reusing GLT is expected to significantly contribute to both environmental sustainability and societal well-being by reducing the demand for virgin materials and minimizing construction waste. The quality of bond lines in reclaimed GLT was assessed by means of the resistance to delamination, a tentative identification of the adhesive systems was conducted. The quality of bond lines in reclaimed GLT was assessed by testing resistance to delamination, and a tentative identification of the adhesive systems was conducted. The authors highlight the implications of recent industrial history in the Norwegian woodworking industry for the reuse of glued laminated timber in load-bearing applications. They point out the conflict between the desire for comprehensive knowledge of reclaimed GLT properties and the need to preserve material integrity to maximize reuse potential.
Based on these findings, suggestions are made for the content of a Norwegian standard for reclaimed GLT.

Keywords: Glued laminated timber, adhesives, standardization

Authors

Karl-Christian Mahnert
NTI (Norwegian Institute of Wood Technology), Norway

Altgen Daniela
NTI (Norwegian Institute of Wood Technology), Norway

Bergset Knut Helge
NTI (Norwegian Institute of Wood Technology), Norway

Øvrum Audun
NTI (Norwegian Institute of Wood Technology), Norway

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