Prediction of modulus of elasticity of poplar wood using ultrasonic technique by applying empirical correction factors

Abstract

In this research, dynamic modulus of elasticity (MOE) of poplar wood was predicted under two different levels of moisture content, two different specimen dimensions, and three different transducer directions by ultrasonic technique. The main goal of this research was evaluate five correlations for the prediction of MOE and finding the best model based on a correction factor. Ultrasonic velocity in the wood was measured using Sylvatest Duo 9906-015 device. Dynamic MOE was calculated using measured ultrasonic wave velocity and density in different transducer directions and compared to static MOE. Static MOE was directly measured using Instron-4486 universal testing machine. Results generally showed that only two correlations had acceptable errors in the range of 5.8%–10.4% for all levels of moisture content. The results also showed that the ultrasonic technique is a suitable and accurate method for the prediction of MOE of poplar wood using models 2 and 3 (with around 7% relative error), especially in lower level of MC. Transducer direction B give the best outcomes along with minimum relative error (6.7%) among the other transducer directions. The empirical correction factors have an impressive effect on the reduction of relative error.