Finite element analysis of mositure accumulation in wooden structural members

摘要

A detailed three-dimensional Finite Element Analysis was conducted to investigate the moisture distribution and accumulation in structured wood members subjected to a temperature/humidity differential. The analysis reveals that the presence and location of a vapor barrier is critical for the moisture accumulation in the member especially in the presence of extreme temperature gradients. It has been known for some time that when a vapor barrier is placed on the cold side, mositure accumulates aginst it and condenses to bound water. Wood swells and expands in proportion to the amount of bound water; thus wood members designed with the vapor barrier on the cold side experience warpage and bowing.