Fracture characterisation of yew (Taxus baccata L.) and spruce (Picea abies [L.] Karst.) in the radial-tangential and tangential-radial crack propagation system by a micro wedge splitting test

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Abstract Common yew (Taxus baccata L.) and Norway spruce (Picea abies [L.] Karst.) are gymnosperm species that differ in their microscopic structure and mechanical characteristics. Compared to spruce, the density of yew wood is high, but the modulus of elasticity is low when loaded parallel to the grain. Information about the transverse load direction is largely lacking. Therefore, the goal of this study was to assess the elastic and fracture mechanical behaviour of both wood species in the radial-tangential plane (crack opening mode I). For this purpose, micro wedge splitting tests were performed. Characteristic elastic and fracture parameters (initial slope, critical load, specific fracture energy) were determined. After the tests, the fracture surfaces were evaluated using microscopic methods. The results reveal clear differences between the species regarding microscopic fracture phenomena and prove that yew wood was significantly stiffer than spruce wood. We suggest that the density and the cell geometry are predominantly responsible for both elasticity and failure behaviour in the transverse direction.