Expertise

We unite the BFH research institutes involved at different stages of the forestry and wood industry value chain. Our experts combine the material, chemical and energetic utilisation of wood as a resource. Digital connectivity is the overarching element that links the entire chain.

Digital transformation and ‘Industry 4.0’

From planning to product – the digital data chain

Our goal is to strengthen companies by making use of digital opportunities. We create a continuous information chain between the different planning and production processes involved in digital fabrication, e.g. using Building Information Modeling (BIM):

Solutions for integrated digital process control
Data transfer interface optimisation
Complete applications with digitally controlled production units

Information on digital manufacturing

Forest & Wood 4.0 initiative – entering the digital future together

What do digital transformation and ‘Industry 4.0’ mean for the forestry and wood industry? Working together with associations, companies, experts and digital natives, we support companies to make a full digital transformation through the Forest & Wood 4.0 initiative.

Raw materials – expertise in harvesting and processing

From forest to wood – efficient management processes

We develop solutions for the effective harvesting and supply of wood:

Cooperation models for the strategic positioning of forestry enterprises
Operational processes for the efficient supply of wood as a raw material
Data transfer technologies and processes used by the parties involved for the intelligent harvesting and processing of wood in accordance with specific needs

Construction materials – intelligence for the built environment

From a simple building to a complex construction – sophisticated systems

We develop reliable, high-performance systems for high-density building, from planning to installation:

Modular timber structures with a high level of pre-fabrication
Resource-efficient and production-optimised load-bearing systems
Energy-efficient and long-lasting building shells
Joining techniques and material combinations for hybrid constructions with wood
Needs-based decision criteria through continuous construction monitoring

New uses for existing buildings – the built environment

We balance innovation and tradition in the context of renovation and infill:

Evaluating and upgrading existing buildings
Non-destructive testing and protection of building materials with historical and cultural value
Static and architectural testing of historical supporting structures
Architectural restoration, urban regeneration and infill in the cultural and historical context

Materials – high-performance, innovative and sustainable

Wood as a natural material – intelligent use of materials

We use the chemical and physical properties of wood for environmentally friendly products, such as furniture, equipment and everyday items:

Sustainable, multifunctional wood and composite materials
Protection systems for wood-based materials
Innovative and environmentally friendly adhesives and coating systems
Wood extractives as an alternative to crude oil-based substances and materials

Works of art and cultural artefacts made from wood – understanding, preservation and use

An innovative approach to historical value
We take an interdisciplinary approach to developing methods and processes for the preservation of cultural artefacts made from wood:

De-restoration processes
Cultural, historical and technological classification and documentation of historical wooden items (measurement, radiography, polychromy testing, UV, VIS, micro samples, FTIR, FPA-FTIR, Raman, SEM)
Development and design of preventive and remedial conservation measures