Abstract
Wood is a naturally grown material that has growth irregularities, especially knots and site-related defects. The former result in a pronounced reduction in stiffness and strength of boards. The lack of knowledge regarding the effects of growth irregularities on the mechanical behavior of boards motivated the investigation of such defects by means of physically-based numerical simulations. A model which is based on the combination of the finite element method with sophisticated descriptions of the fiber course and of the material behavior has been developed. Comparisons of model predictions with corresponding experimental results in terms of relations between tensile strength and knot area ratio-values show good agreement and underline the predictive quality of the simulation model. The enhanced insight into the mechanical functionality of a stem–branch junction gained by the newly developed numerical multiscale model might contribute to improve the grading criteria and, thus, to achieve an economic benefit for the wood-processing industry.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
