This Wood and Water Relationships course describes the interactions of wood and water and the effect on a number of properties – shrinking and swelling in particular. The course begins with lectures on gas behavior and humidity. This information serves as background for understanding interactions between temperature and humidity, and their impact on wood behavior. The information on wood and water relations is divided into two lectures.
LECTURE ONEThe first presents a review of wood structure, how wood holds water, how we calculate moisture content, why wood shrinks and swells, and how wood’s moisture content changes with changes in temperature and humidity.
LECTURE TWOThe second lecture on wood and water relations focuses on shrinking and swelling. Solid wood is presented first followed by unique issues with composite wood products such as restraint due to cross-lamination, the impact of densification, and variability in density.
The course also includes information on common methods and tools used for measuring moisture content.
Wood science and technology experts, selected from top universities, government research labs and industry, teach the course's seven modules.
The modules are integrated online and build upon each other to provide a logical progression as participants transfer newly-acquired skills to the workplace. Modules are self-paced and can be started at any time to help you balance your career and other responsibilities.
Each module includes five to 10 hours of instruction.
Participants who receive a 70-percent or above on the course final exam will receive a Certificate of Completion.
Scott Leavengood is an associate professor and director of the Oregon Wood Innovation Center at OSU.