FORESDA - Outdoor wooden equipment after first year on testing field

28-11-2018

The main idea of Slovenian Pilot project is to design and test innovative bio-based products and materials for outdoor use. In the frame of the project, certain innovative products were designed and tested, such as children playgrounds (climber), urban equipment (benches) and high raised beds. All products were exposed to the natural weathering in November 2017, on the test field side of Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Wood Science and Technology in Ljubljana. All products are in use and equipped with wood moisture and temperature sensors. During the first year of exposure, the most prominent changes were in color of the wood. All un-treated materials turn grey after nine months, while cooper treatment slows down photodegradation. But more than color, wood moisture content is important for the long service life of wooden products. Measurements show slightly higher moisture content of Norway spruce wood in comparison to Oak or Black locust wood. However, the first year results are considered to be only an indication, and the final results are expected in the following years. 

Programme co-funded by European Union funds (ERDF, IPA, ENI)