Graphene-Enhanced Timber Systems: Real-Time Monitoring and Lifecycle Data Integration for Maintenance and Adaptive Reuse

This study explores the integration of graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) within glue-laminated timber (glulam) to develop an intelligent composite system for real-time structural monitoring in mass timber architecture. Amid growing interest in sustainable construction, timber is increasingly used to replace carbon-intensive materials. However, the industry lacks affordable tools to assess timber performance during its service life and non-destructive methods to evaluate its potential for reuse afterward. This study addresses that gap by embedding GNP ink between glulam lamellas to detect deformation through changes in electrical conductivity. A series of scaled prototypes was fabricated and tested under load conditions. Electrical resistance data was collected and processed using machine learning algorithms to predict deformation patterns and stress distribution. A custom digital interface was developed to visualize structural behavior, enable predictive maintenance, and generate a Service Life Passport (SLP) linked to a digital twin for each timber element, allowing professionals to track performance, detect material displacement, and integrate reuse strategies. The results confirm the feasibility of this graphene-enhanced system as a low-cost, scalable solution for monitoring and extending the life cycle of timber components. This innovation supports circular construction practices by transforming mass timber into a sensor-enabled material that retains value beyond its initial application.