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From forestry schools to wood physics as a scientific discipline: a review of historical milestones and future directions of wood science is a paper by Dick Sandberg of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and Peter Niemz ETH Zurich published by Research Gate. Source: Timberbiz This overview traces the modern history of wood science and technology, particularly from the European perspective. It begins with the early forestry schools in 18th-century Germany, which influenced the founding of similar institutions worldwide. These schools introduced technical subjects, including wood physics, to meet industrial demand, especially from the mining sector. Before formal studies began, early research on wood properties, including moisture relations and strength, appeared in encyclopaedias. With the Industrial Revolution, interest in wood as a construction material grew, linking wood research to engineering and materials science. In the early 20th century, dedicated wood technology institutes marked the birth of wood science as a distinct discipline. Today, key research fields include wood-water relations, mechanical and rheological behaviour, wood modification, and structure-property modelling. The future of wood science lies in sustainability and the efficient use of resources. As interest in renewable, bio-based alternatives to steel and concrete grows, further research on wood functionalisation and modification will be vital. More information about this paper here  

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The new Log Max 20-inch class harvester head is the result of collaborative efforts by Log Max and Quadco and incorporates the Quadco Intermittent Disc Saw to reduce downtime and costs associated with chain saws. Source: Timberbiz The swing-out disc saw has a solid centre and a rotating ring, enabling the saw to instantly develop 600-700 rpm cutting speed. The result is high quality cuts at an impressive rate. This robust head is built for shift after shift production. It quickly cleans out underbrush without throwing chain or bending bars, clearing the way for a close-to- the-ground cut to increase the value of the first log. It is also ideal for delimbing and topping challenging trees. This modern state-of-the-art harvester-processor is designed for professional contractors. Its standout feature, the swing-out disc saw, has a cutting speed of 600-700 rpm, ensuring high-quality cuts and exceptional productivity. Combined with the Logmax Logmate 510 Control system, this package will ensure high-quality cuts and good productivity.

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Fukushima United Football Club has unveiled plans for Japan’s first all-wooden stadium. The club also claims that the new facility will be the world’s first fully recyclable wooden stadium. Source: The Stadium Business In an announcement on its website, the club stated: “In exploring sustainable architecture originating from Japan, inspiration is drawn from the traditional practice of Shikinen Sengu in which sacred Shinto shrines are periodically rebuilt, and their enshrined deities are transferred to other newly constructed buildings. “The stadium will be built using wood, with layers of lumber sourced from Fukushima Prefecture. Each component is designed to be disassembled and reused, promoting the recycling of local resources. In addition, we will call for club members and local residents to participate in the creation of building components in a festive, community-driven events. “Through reforestation and woodworking education, we also aim to pass on skills to the next generation, taking on the challenge of ensuring the sustainable recycling of resources, culture, and craftsmanship.” The club also pointed out that it intends to take advantage of Fukushima’s basin climate to effectively circulate natural energy required for its stadium. “Taking advantage of Fukushima’s basin climate, we introduce a passive design that maximises the use of natural energy. The shape of the roof is designed to block sunlight in summer and shield against cold winds in winter. Variations in the exterior wall shape allow prevailing winds to be captured in summer and blocked in winter. “Additionally, collected rainwater is filtered for reuse, and snow stored during winter is utilised for cooling in the summer. Through efforts to recycle natural energy, we aim to reduce energy consumption while storing the renewable energy generated on-site in a battery system, working toward energy self-sufficiency. “Ultimately, we will strive to achieve certification under the Living Building Challenge, one of the world’s most rigorous environmental standards for sustainability and regenerative design.” The stadium will seat 5000 and be the country’s first circular timber stadium. Architects are VUILD who say they will use timber from local forests and use six metre spans with hyperbolic paraboloid shells made from cross-section timber.

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