The scientific programme was divided into four areas and based on workshops and strong networks created by Working Groups (WG):
Knowledge transfer
This had the highest priority since the Working Groups were connected in a way that data transfer was absolutely necessary, each providing relevant information for the others. In addition to workshops and conferences, the exchange of researchers using the Short-Term Scientific Mission scheme guaranteed this transfer.
Links between Working Groups
WG1 and WG2 were naturally linked to each other because they both dealt with the characterisation of the main cell-wall constituents, which cannot be completely separated.
WG3 exchanged with WG1 and WG2 because the cell growth stress generation is a mechanical consequence of cell-wall formation and RW influences the production of macromolecules.
WG4 benefited from WG1 giving insights into cell-wall organisation:
- From WG2 because of the relation between the lignification process and growth stress generation
- From WG3 explaining the process of material elaboration.
In return, it stimulated the work on cell-wall composition and wood formation, developed in WGs 1, 2 and 3.
In addition, there existed a potential link of WG4 with WG1 “Microstructure and Micromechanics” of COST Action E35 “Fracture mechanics and micromechanics of wood and wood composites with regard to wood machining”.
Instruments and methods used
- Growth and stress assessment on standing trees
- 3D digitising, kinematics and biomechanical analysis of stem shape
- Preparation and micro-preparation equipment
- All appropriate microscopic methods for observing behaviour and structure
- Quantitative anatomy and image analysis
- All appropriate spectroscopic methods
- X-ray and Laser scanning and diffraction
- Biochemistry, immunocytochemistry and autoradiography
- Nuclear magnetic resonance
- Facilities for conventional mechanical and physical characterisation
- Equipment for micromechanical testing, e.g. micro-balance and laser micrometers
- Workstations for numerical simulations, e.g. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Mechanical Event Simulation (MES).
