Jerrold Winandy

Background

About Jerrold Winandy

Dr Winandy started his own consulting firm specializing in forensic wood science and bioresource sustainability in 2008 after retiring as Project Leader of the Engineered Composites Science Research Work Unit (RWU4706) at USDA Forest Products Lab. He had primary responsibility for the processing and serviceability of wood-based and wood-plastic composite products. His research focuses on enhancing the performance and durability of engineered biocomposites and the long-term sustainability of bio-based composites. He is considered an expert on the effects of chemicals and chemical processing on the structural performance of wood and wood-composites. This research has been resulted in several new design adjustments or process limitations in National Codes and Standards in the US and Canada. His work on the very early stages of biological decay showed that changes in the chemical composition of the wood cause significant reductions in wood strength before measurable weight loss occurs. From an engineering perspective, estimating strength loss and residual strength is the critical element in assessing wood serviceability/durability for structures in-service as affected by wood decay. Collaborative studies have shown close a relationship between the degradation of hemicellulose and wood strength losses. Residual strength of degraded wood can be predicted using models developed by this collaborative team. Understanding the relationship between chemical composition and strength loss is critical in developing models to estimate strength loss caused by biological, chemical or thermal agents.