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The Optimization of the Strength of Wood Adhesive Joints Supported by Steel Fasteners in Furniture Components
The strength properties of softwood components with bonded joints reinforced with fasteners were investigated and compared. Initial tests of the strength of the glue joints were carried out, with a change in the type of adhesive used. The application method significantly influenced the shear strength of the joint. With the adhesive and pre-bonding systems used, the shear strength of the adhesive joint of pine wood (Pinus silvestris L.) with PUR and PVAC resin was determined. The industrial results were 31% lower than in the shear test of the wooden joint bonded with PVAC glue. In terms of transverse shear force with staples, the joint has a transverse holding force that is higher than components connected with screws or nails. As the number of glue sticks increased, the shear strength of the pine wood increased. The strengths of the joined components in the glue roller method had an intermediate value. They did not differ significantly between the two-row gluing systems used. An increase in the force required to shear the bonded joint was observed for the different adhesive systems, the fasteners used, and their density.
Modeling the Effects of Strict Protection of Forest Areas—Part of the Provisions of the EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030
The case study included approx. 0.5 million ha of forest areas in Poland that are managed by the Regional Directorate of State Forests. The objective was to assess the impact of four different scenarios restricting the size of forest areas available for commercial use. Based on different criteria, each scenario set aside 10% of the total land area for strict protection on forested land, which is in line with the EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030. The economic impact (volume of reduced wood raw material) was statistically estimated for each of the four scenarios. It was confirmed that the layout of forest habitats is essential for specific limitations in forest production. For the optimal implementation of the provisions of the strategy, a balance in the selection of social, economic, and natural elements must be considered. This protects primarily the most valuable natural habitats characterized by the highest level of biodiversity, age diversity, and dispersion within the studied forest unit. The presented results may support decision-making processes used to maximize biodiversity protection while minimizing the negative economic impact of this environmental protection.