Madeira en Valor: Research and Application of Chestnut in Construction
Within the framework of the Madeira en Valor agreement, developed between the Galician Forest Industry Agency (XERA) and the Structural Timber Engineering Platform (PEMADE) of the University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), these videos present the main activities carried out throughout the project for the study and valorization of Galician chestnut as a structural material in construction.
Through non-destructive testing based on the propagation of acoustic waves and vibration analysis, methodologies are presented that make it possible to assess timber quality without damaging the elements, estimating key parameters for their grading and structural use. These tests are complemented by mechanical testing and long-term studies, which allow the behavior of the wood under load and its evolution during the drying process to be analyzed.
The content also includes destructive tests carried out for material characterization, which are essential for obtaining the values used in structural design, as well as the development of timber–concrete composite systems, from connection design to prototype manufacturing and experimental validation.
Overall, these videos showcase the experimental, technological, and applied work developed within the project, contributing to the valorization of Galician chestnut and promoting more sustainable construction based on local resources.