Timber bodies strength of materials: Fundamental principles, test specimens proposal

To reduce the economic cost of a Timber Structure, the first condition is to have a “rational” Structural Code, that is, a Code supported by research and a specific theory. To establish a rational Structural Timber Code, a specific theoretical support is needed. The objective of this paper is to cooperate in the construction of this theoretical support. To design timber structures, it is necessary to have mathematical models able to reproduce the resistance of timber bodies under different solicitations. In this paper, a “road map” to arrive to a specific Strength of Materials of Timber Bodies is proposed. This theory will be the tool needed to develop the mathematical models whose quantification will be obtained by testing “basic test specimens” obtained from timber of any particular timber building (like in concrete or soil mechanics). Finally, a “basic test specimen” for practical application of the theory is proposed. In this case, the experimental support is referred to “willow” wood.