In situ assessment of structural timber using semi-destructive techniques

This paper summarizes the test recommendations for selected semi-destructive testing techniques as developed by members of the RILEM Technical Committee AST 215 ‘‘In-situ assessment of structural timber’’. The recommendations cover resistance drilling, core drilling, glue line test, tension micro-specimens, screw withdrawal, and several hardness tests. The paper includes a matrix of common non-destructive testing to assess structural timber. The discussion of each technique is intended to provide users with sufficient information to understand the theoretical basis, typical equipment set up, and basic capabilities and limitations.