Don't forget, most laminates (such as plywood) are stronger as compared to a solid peice of wood the same thickness because of the different grain orientations.
+++++++++++++++++++ I also believe this - so here is a question for the knowledgeable among us: How about making up wing spar caps out of several laminations of ply? As we are taught, a good scarf makes for any length you like without any strength compromise. 8 x 1/4" laminations would make up the correct depth (for a 2" spar cap) and work just fine for the bent spar. Using 5 ply must surely result in a bullet proof spar? Steve J