Compression parallel to grain of pinewood specimens with simulated damage by holes: Experiment and modeling

Abstract

This work aims to clarify ideas about the mechanical behavior of pinewood (Pinus Sylvestris) with artificial damage in the form of holes under uniaxial compression parallel to the grain. Research methods: experimental (SHIMADZU test machine) and modeling using nonlinear equation. Comparison of the compression behavior of 15 specimens along the grain shows that the pre-peak branches of the load-displacement curve for specimens with and without holes do not differ significantly. However, at the post-peak stage, the failure of specimens without holes is smoother compared to the failure of specimens with holes. This pattern is clearer for specimens with two holes compared to specimens with one hole. In the experiments, the fracture zone of all specimens with holes passed through the hole. This pattern indicates that damage and degradation starts near the holes and due to the decrease in cross-sectional area and the effect of stress concentration near the holes. The simulation results are in agreement with experiments and data known from the literature. Nevertheless, it is advisable to continue the study taking into account the influence of wood moisture content, species and other factors.