Performance of modified wood in service – multi-sensor and multi-scale evaluation

The performance of 120 selected façade materials provided by over 30 industrial and academic partners was evaluated during 12-month experimental campaign of natural weathering. A multisensor measurement chain for the acquisition of properties at different scales (molecular, microscopic, macroscopic) included both laboratory and on-site techniques. Investigated biomaterials were characterized before, during and after degradation by biotic and abiotic agents in order to provide experimental data to be used for better understanding of the bio-materials performance/degradation as a function of time and/or weather dose. Obtained data were utilized for the development series of numerical models simulating materials appearance changes along the service life of building facade. An original software simulating bio-materials’ performance in any geographical location has been developed and is currently under integration with Building Information Modelling. It serves as a tool for demonstrating advantages of using biobased materials when compared to other commonly utilized alternative resources. Results of the BIO4ever project provide solid technical and scientific knowledge, but also contribute to the public awareness by demonstrating the environmental benefits to be gained from the knowledgeable use of bio-based materials in buildings.