hi everyone, cannot believe ive had so many posts on such a trivial question i will take onboard all the issues brought up, although i must say it is an AS level project and a bit easier than the ideas that you have contributed, a lot of pressure on getting an A now, hehe. will let you know how i get on, im also going to talk about Youngs Modulus data for those who are aware of it, dislocations in the microscopic structure of metal/wood,as well as cost which in the commercial world is one of the important aspects. Thanks everyone for your input, your welcome to carry the thread on, might get over 10 pages of posts yet :P Ryan.