Wood Adhesive Durability *
*Note: This is an abbreviated Project Idea, without notes to start your background research, a specific list of materials, or a procedure for how to do the experiment. You can identify abbreviated Project Ideas by the asterisk at the end of the title. If you want a Project Idea with full instructions, please pick one without an asterisk.
Abstract
The different species of wood used in construction offer a variety of challenges based on density, porosity, oils in the wood, flexibility, elasticity, etc. The intended use, e.g., structural or cosmetic, presents different challenges as well. The glue must be compatible with the wood, the use, and the climate, so many experiments are possible. For example, you could design an experiment to test the durability of different adhesives using the same wood. Or, you could try different wood samples using the same adhesive. Or, you could look at the effect of different environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, rain, salt spray exposure, etc.). Or, you could do a larger study that includes multiple variables. If you run a multi-variable study, remember that you'll need to have a sufficient number of samples so that you can make comparisons between groups with only a single variable—wood type, glue type, or climate—changing. One way to measure the outcome would be to test the strength of the glue joint at the end of the experiment. (Poretti, 2006)Share your story with Science Buddies!
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Last edit date: 2013-01-10
Bibliography
Poretti, D., 2006. Personal communication.Share your story with Science Buddies!
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