UPM-Biofore-Magazine-2-2017-ENG

>> Aalto University has also been exploring the tactility of wood, that is, howwooden surfaces should feel in order to be perceived as smooth and appealing. “Sometimes a certain type of coating can decrease the feeling of naturalness of a wood surface. This is why it is important to understand what kind of coating improves the tactile perception,” observes Hughes. “Through our research, we are trying to better understand the interaction between wood surfaces and interiors, and we have developed new types of coatings that make wood surfaces hydrophobic to liquid water but that still retain the ability to absorb moisture from the atmosphere,” he concludes. Cascading in construction Concrete and steel remain the preferred constructionmaterials, especially in bigger projects, though wood construction is a slowly growing trend and the use of wood inmulti-storey buildings is increasing. “To increase the use of wood in structures and as a building material we need to increase knowledge and create a favourable environment and legislation. Wood building might be a bit more expensive and there are still regulatory and cultural issues hindering increased wood construction. “Meanwhile, we need to rethink how to improve the material efficiency of wood material use within the bioeconomy by, for example, cascading,” notes Hughes. “We have to maximise the forest’s ability to take carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. We can optimise wood cascading and increase the material efficiency and reuse of woodmaterials during their whole lifecycle.” “When architects design buildings, they must envisage the deconstruction stage and consider how to convert wood residues into new products instead of burning the material. This would increase material efficiency,” Hughes notes.

Breathing easy on the Log Campus

W e chose a log construction to combat health problems resulting frompoor indoor air quality. The old school was made from concrete, and we had dozens of students and teachers suffering from allergic reactions caused by poor indoor air. These problems are now history,” says the school principal Mikko Lumme . The walls “breathe” so there is no risk of mould accumulating in the structures and causing health issues. Thanks to the excellent acoustics and attractive finish, the log school in Pudasjärvi has a very cosy feel. “We have received excellent feedback on the pleasant surroundings from students and staff. The acoustics are also greatly improved,” says Lumme. With its neutral colours and smooth surface, wood is a naturally soothing material. It is scientifically proven that in wooden buildings, Both students and teachers are happy with the new Pudasjärvi comprehensive school completed in 2016. The new, world- famous school is made of an ancient natural material: wood.

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