PROJECT. COLLABORATION. INNOVATION.
SEED FUND 2023
Naturally Grown Timber Pilot Project
This project is a collaboration between South Dublin County Council, Coillte DAC, MediteSmartply and University of Galway, to demonstrate the potential for homegrown timber and wood-based panel products in timber frame in a scheme of 20-30 social houses to be constructed in 2024/25. The project builds on manufacturing trials undertaken in 2023, coordinated by Forest Industries Ireland and Coillte in collaboration with a large-scale timber frame manufacturer and Irish sawmill and with the support of the University of Galway and TU Dublin. A key work package comprised of the assessment during the various stages of production with recommendations of the optimum production guidelines for home-grown timber. This project aims to undertake a full carbon and lifecycle assessment (LCA) of the development and publish a project case study report quantifying the benefits in terms of speed, embodied carbon footprint, quality and precision, waste reduction, and the circular economy. In addition, to assist with the dissemination of the project results and to open engagement opportunities with the timber frame sector.
Applicant’s name and RPO member:
Dr. Patrick McGetrick – University of Galway
Collaborators:
Coillte DAC & South Dublin County Council
Collaborators
Principal Investigator
Dr Patrick McGetrick,
Associate Professor in Structural Engineering at University of Galway; Principal Investigator in the Timber Engineering Research Group (TERG)
Patrick is a structural engineer with 17 years’ experience across structural design, analysis and dynamics. He is currently an Associate Professor in Civil Engineering and Director of the Timber Engineering Research Group at University of Galway, carrying out research and teaching in timber engineering and sustainable infrastructure systems.
Related content
