NWNR100241 Wood utilisation

Type
course with continuous assessment
Semester hours
4
Lecturer (assistant)
Grabner, Michael , Weber, Andrea
Organisation
Wood Technology and Renewable Materials
Offered in
Wintersemester 2026/27
Languages of instruction
Deutsch
Content

Wood is one of humanity's oldest materials, serving as fuel and a working material. It has always been used in line with its properties. However, much of the knowledge possessed by our ancestors has already been lost.
This course aims to provide insight into the knowledge that has been reconstructed from ancient literature and museum collection analyses.
Topics such as selecting wood (including special types such as bent or tapered logs) and wood species (including rarely used species) will be discussed, as well as woodworking. Specific wood properties will also be illustrated using non-European commercial timbers.
Another key point is the discussion of the 'impact' of wood: Why should wood be used? This is intended to bridge the gap to future applications.
Field trips to the Austrian Open-Air Museum in Stübing and a woodworking business will reinforce the knowledge gained. In a session at the woodworking shop of the Institute for Wood Technology and Renewable Resources, students will also have the opportunity to experience wood as a material first-hand.
Previous knowledge expected

Interest in wood as a material, historical uses of wood, and specific properties of wood
Objective (expected results of study and acquired competences)

Students can describe, name and list a wide variety of aspects related to the use of wood, as well as the scientific methods necessary for research. They can also select appropriate methods for a given situation and justify their choice. Using their knowledge of the historical use of wood, students can select suitable species for a variety of modern products and justify their choices. This also includes non-native species.
Students possess in-depth expertise regarding the historical and future significance of wood use and can contribute this knowledge to discussions with experts and the general public.
You can find more details like the schedule or information about exams on the course-page in BOKUonline.