Formed wood laminates for next-generation lightweight structures for automotive and construction application

Research Project, 2026 – 2031

Biobased materials are in high demand for carbon-neutral engineering. Introduction of bioeconomy also requires creation of new areas to use wood in, for example, automotive and aviation industries. To meet the demand, it is essential to diversify the use of wood species for various engineering application. Moreover, high performance biobased product needs to be introduced with optimum material usage to ensure responsible use of wood.Forming thin-walled timber can contribute significantly to this endeavour. However, formation of irregular shape introduces residual stresses in the laminate. This project aims to investigate how wood´s microstructural properties and manufacturing process parameters influence the development of residual stresses at various scales of the structure, and how these stresses can influence failure. It is crucial to address this, as the failure mechanisms of these laminates are not fully understood.The study will implement advanced material characterisation to understand the mechanism of residual stresses development at various scales of wood. Its microscopic properties will be determined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. X-ray and neutron scattering techniques will be used to examine the interaction between these properties and the process parameters. Design of Experiments principles will be used to statistically analyse the influential parameters and optimise them to reduce the residual stresses in timber laminates. Finally, a numerical model based on Continuum Damage Mechanics will be developed and modified to accurately predict the failure behaviour of the timber laminate subjected to residual stresses.The expected results include a new framework for accurately determining residual stress in timber structures. The study will provide guidance on which wood species are best for specific applications and how to process them for optimal mechanical performance and dimensional stability. Also, it will produce a new numerical model for designing and analysing formed timber sections.This research will enable lightweight, high-performance structural elements for the automotive and construction industries, ensuring responsible use of natural resources. The findings will promote biodiversity by increasing the value and market use of various wood species (including low valued ones), potentially opening new markets in automotive industry.