Structural performance of timber beams after long-term service: an experimental study

The results of experimental studies on rectangular-section timber beams subjected to short-term loading after long-term service are presented. The experiments were carried out on bending elements under various temperature and humidity conditions and with different levels of damage. The average bearing capacity of the rectangular-section beams was determined. It was established that the bearing capacity of beams operated under normal service conditions did not significantly decrease. However, for bending elements exposed to deteriorated temperature and humidity conditions, a significant reduction in bearing capacity was observed. The failure modes of the experimental beams are presented and discussed.