Timber Construction: An Experimental Assessment of the Strength of Scarf Joints and the Effectiveness of Various Adhesives for Laminated Wood

Timber construction has recently seen a significant regain of interest across a range of industries, owing to contemporary concerns for sustainability. In the marine industry, historic principles of traditional wooden boatbuilding remain present, with empirical rules still common practice, as is the case for scarf joints. Moreover, laminated wood is made more attractive and efficient thanks to modern adhesives. However, with the progresses made in structural analysis, these assemblies can now be refined based on scientifically informed evidence. Consequently, this paper will employ destructive testing to tackle two distinct cases. On the one hand, the strength of feathered (plain) scarf joints as a function of their slope will be evaluated. On the other hand, the effectiveness of a range of adhesives will be ascertained for the purpose of laminated manufacturing. Ultimately, the results will be compared to both the strength of solid wood and the mechanical properties assumed by modern scantling regulations, revealing significant differences. The research findings provide a better understanding of these fundamental timber construction principles, supporting designers and builders alike in making informed choices and promoting safer regulatory compliance. It is also anticipated these findings will impact structural design beyond the wooden boatbuilding field, with applications in sustainable buildings and architecture.