About Coalition for Advanced Wood Structures (CAWS)
Wood has been used as a structural material for thousands of years. Despite the development of other materials, wood continues as a primary structural material and is widely used because of its excellent performance characteristics and affordability. As we move into the future, research is needed to develop more efficient and durable structures that are adaptable to the changing forest resource typified by plantation-grown trees and small-diameter secondary species. In recognition of this need, academic and industry leaders, together with the US Forest Service Forest Products Laboratory, formed the Coalition for Advanced Wood Structures (CAWS). CAWS brings together representatives from universities, industry and government to work together in a cooperative, complementary manner to foster sustainable, efficient use of our forest resources while improving the economy and performance of wood structures. The scope of activities includes all types of wood structures, focusing in three areas: |
|
|
|
Examples of specific CAWS research areas include the following:
|
The Coalition effectively functions as an extension of the Forest Products Laboratory and cooperatively participates in research and technology transfer to meet National and regional needs. Coalition research maximizes the unique capabilities of the respective members to develop and evaluate technology for both new and existing structures in which wood and/or wood-based products are used as primary or secondary components. It also leverages federal funding to do more with less and maximize public benefit. Current members of the Coalition are:
For more information, contact:
Karen Martinson, |
Research in Progress
Partners