Wood Science and Technology

The IC LES PST Infrastructure Center is the central national research platform for studying the service life of wood, lignocellulosic composites, and other biogenic materials. Operating within the Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Wood Science and Technology, the center provides researchers, students, and industry partners access to a unique combination of laboratory, field, and diagnostic infrastructure. Its core mission is to offer high‑level support for understanding wood ageing processes, the effectiveness of protective treatments, the impacts of climate change, and the behaviour of natural and engineered wood‑based materials under real weather conditions.

The center manages two extensive field testing sites—located in Ljubljana and Bilje near Nova Gorica,—where both standard and non‑standard wood durability tests are carried out. At these locations, several model buildings, evaluation platforms, and monitoring systems are installed, enabling long‑term tracking of wood moisture content, temperature, colour changes, and decay. Combined with advanced methods of artificial accelerated ageing, the center provides comprehensive comparability between real environmental exposure and laboratory conditions.

IC LES PST is equipped with a wide range of analytical instruments, including three XRF systems, an FTIR spectrometer, a DVS analyzer, hyperspectral cameras, a microbiological laboratory, and specialized equipment for wood modification and impregnation. This enables precise analysis of the physical, chemical, and biological processes occurring in wood and other lignocellulosic materials.

A major advantage of the center is its mobile laboratory, which enables on‑site diagnostics of wooden structures, assessment of decay, elevated moisture levels, and mechanical properties in both new and heritage buildings. This mobile unit is a key tool for supporting the timber‑construction industry, conservation services, and other professional users.

As the only center of its kind in Slovenia, IC LES PST represents a key national research infrastructure in the field of wood durability, while its international collaborations and integration into European research networks significantly contribute to advancing knowledge and innovation in wood science.

For field testing, use of the mobile laboratory, or access to other research equipment, please contact the head of the center, Dr. Boštjan Lesar