Vibroacoustic characterization of mass-timber using a designed and built test rig.

The vibroacoustic characterization of materials is fundamental for their application in construction, particularly in the case of wood and mass timber as structural elements. However, reliable methods to study the behavior of such components are not always available, which limits their optimization and utilization. This work proposes the development of a tailored vibroacoustic characterization method that integrates various practical and theoretical methodologies. Specifically, a vibroacoustic measurement system, which incorporates an impact hammer, accelerometers, and microphones, is designed, built, and commissioned. The system is first validated using a metallic plate, whose vibroacoustic behavior is well-documented. Subsequently, different types of woods are characterized, and the results are compared with predictions from finite element models (FEM). The combination of experimental data and numerical modeling allows the evaluation of the mechanical properties of wood-based systems, comparing vibroacoustic response and sound transmission. This study contributes to the experimental characterization of wood-based materials for vibroacoustic applications, which is relevant for sustainable and energy-efficient applications in industries such as architecture and construction.