In building that are old (greater than 30years) it becomes difficult to identify the types of woods used when planning their repair. This is because of blackening of the tree resin and discoloration due to the adhesion of the dust. Unless the wood can be identified correctly, parts cannot be replaced because differences in the expansion coefficient and water absorption can lead to dimensional instability. Furthermore, in the case of historically important buildings, it is not possible to cut out large-sized samples for laboratory identification. This paper explains a method developed to identify woods from 3x3x0.5mm samples by measuring the distribution of the vessels of woods by a He-Ne laser. A database of identification parameters of more than 30 kinds of woods was made allowing identification and properties of most woods including imported woods used in architecture. The method developed is more accurate than the conventional identification methods used up to now. It was applied to identify the woods used in 100 to 400 year old buildings and to formulate their repair specifications. The method has also been applied to assess the suitability of imported woods for use in modern high buildings.
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