University of Hawaiʻi at 惭ā苍辞补 researchers are working to determine whether Hawaiʻi-grown eucalyptus could become a reliable source of lumber for construction, helping reduce the state’s reliance on imported building materials while supporting healthier forests.
The project, led by Jun Wang, an assistant professor in the , received a $300,000 USDA Forest Service Wood Innovation Grant to establish the engineering standards needed for eucalyptus to be used in structural applications.
Establishing construction possibilities
Although Hawaiʻi has more than 34,000 acres of managed eucalyptus plantations, the wood is rarely used in construction because engineers and builders lack the design data needed to certify it for structural use. If successful, the research could create new opportunities for Hawaiʻi’s forestry and wood products industries while reducing shipping costs, supply chain risks and carbon emissions associated with importing lumber. Researchers also say putting more eucalyptus to use could encourage better forest management by reducing excess wood that can contribute to wildfire fuel.
The research team will work with state agencies, forest landowners and industry partners to harvest trees, produce lumber and test its strength and durability. The findings will help establish engineering design values needed for commercial construction and could lay the groundwork for future engineered wood products made in Hawaiʻi.
“Our goal is to determine whether a resource that’s already growing in Hawaiʻi can safely be used to build the homes, schools and infrastructure our communities need,” Wang said. “If we can provide the engineering data the construction industry needs, we can help create a more resilient local building supply while giving our students the opportunity to solve real challenges facing Hawaiʻi.”
Student involvement
The research also will benefit students. Wang’s team received an $8,000 American Society for Engineering Education grant to incorporate Hawaiʻi-grown eucalyptus into civil engineering courses. The new curriculum will give students hands-on experience evaluating sustainable building materials by comparing locally grown eucalyptus with conventional construction materials.
Students will examine factors such as structural performance, carbon emissions and local sourcing while participating in research that addresses Hawaiʻi’s unique environmental and construction challenges. Many members of the research team are 糖心视频 students from Hawaiʻi who are helping develop solutions that could benefit the state’s future infrastructure and economy.