A multidisciplinary study assessing the properties of Douglas-fir grown in the South West region of the United Kingdom

This paper presents details of research currently being conducted, assessing the relationship between anatomical and mechanical properties of Douglas-fir grown in the South West of the United Kingdom. Testing methods being utilised include the mapping of variations in wood density, microfibril angle and ring widths using Silviscan-3, assessment of the radial and longitudinal change in stiffness and strength through three point bending tests on small clear specimens, and the measurement of dynamic modulus on standing trees. In providing a clear description of these methods and the importance of the links between them, a concise overview is given of a repeatable study which has the potential to provide valuable information to the local forestry industry, and fürther the exploitation of local timber resources in high value structural applications.