Uses of CT Imaging at FPInnovations

Our Resource Assessment and Characterization Group utilizes the CT scanners to determine internal characteristics of hardwood and softwood material in relation to stand characteristics and growing conditions.

Our Lumber Manufacturing Research Department is adding a new functionality to our Optitek log breakdown simulation model.  It will be based on image data generated by the CT Scanners.

In the case of our Lumber Drying Group, CT scanning is being integrated into our R&D program to:

• Facilitate mass flow measurements during the drying process and measure effective hydraulic conductivity to validate our drying models
• Develop 3D images of water pockets, and monitor their evolution during the drying process
• Generally facilitate the development of more accurate models to simulate industrial drying conditions

In the context of our Value-added R&D Program, CT scanning will increasingly be used to:

• Analyze the development of cracks in various materials during mechanical tests
• Analyze the structure of adhesive bonds in composite wood products
• Detect decay in building materials
• Assess quality in whole range of value-added engineered wood products in order to improve assembly characteristics
• Assess finishing utility