Experimental archaeology: water immersion (only) as a softening method for the preparation of cedar beams for bending

The technique of preparing timber for bending by water immersion only exclusively represents an established practice; however, to my knowledge, systematic documentation of this methodology applied to cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani) has not been previously undertaken. This investigation examines two sawn-timber beams of cedar of Lebanon subjected to bending procedures utilising the aforementioned preparation technique, with comparative analysis of force requirements, displacement capacity and elastic recovery relative to untreated beams. The findings demonstrate that preparation through water immersion confers multiple advantages: substantially reduced force requirements, enhanced bending capacity without structural failure, and reduced elastic recovery upon load removal.