ABSTRACT
Wood is a natural renewable material that has been used by humanity for numerous daily functions since ancestral times. Its capacity to be cut into different shapes (Figure 1.1a), its hard-wearing aptitude, superior mechanical resistance, abundance in many latitudes, reasonable price and attractiveness are the features that have contributed to its constant search. Notable machinability, lightweight and durability in many environmental conditions are relevant characteristics that have contributed to its use, as well. The fact that wood is prone to change its form under specific environmental conditions (i.e. moisture, temperatures and loading) has also enabled the development of many artefacts of refined geometrical configuration. These characteristics are identified through many applications such as domestic furniture or objects (Figure 1.1b), sport products (Figure 1.1c) and transport vehicles (e.g. ships, trains, motor vehicles and aircrafts) (Figure 1.1d). Wood is also recognised as a naturally beautiful and aesthetically pleasing material.
