The Engineering Mechanics and Remote Sensing Laboratory (EMRSL) conducts physical and mechanical tests on a wide range of materials, building systems, and structures-from houses to transportation structures. Results inform the development of building codes and structural design. |
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Research Focus Areas
Testing involves samples ranging from toothpick-sized to full structural beams (50 feet long) made of solid wood or combinations of wood fibers, plastics, adhesives, and metal.
Static tests can simulate snow loads or dead loads, while dynamic tests simulate seismic, fatigue, and wind loads.
The EMRSL uses desktop-sized testing machines, rated from 1 to 10,000 pounds, and standalone machines, rated from 60,000 to 130,000 pounds.
A strong floor and wall system allows researchers the ability to apply loads from multiple directions for full-scale testing of three-dimensional structures such as wood-framed building mock-ups up to 20 feet tall.
Equipment and Capabilities
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