Evaluating static bending elastic properties of full-size lumbers by using transverse vibration method

The possibility of a non-destructive transverse vibration technique was studied to evaluate static bending elastic properties of full-size lumbers.Sixty-two commercial spruce, pine and fir lumbers (38mm×89mm×3 658mm) from North American were selected for modulus of elasticity (MOE) tests.The dynamic MOE and two static MOE of each lumber, based on transverse vibration (E_tv), four-point bending test of ASTM D198-99(E₁) and ASTM D4761-96(E₂) respectively, were measured under an air-dried condition.The results indicated that the average E_tv was 5%(0.56 GPa) greater than E₁and 15%(1.46GPa) greater than E₂.Statistical linear regression analyses revealed that significant relationships were evident among dynamic and static elastic properties (at the level of 0.01).The correlation coefficient was 0.853 between E_tv and E₁,and 0.881 between E_tv and E₂.Therefore, it can be concluded that the non-destructive transverse vibration technique can be applied to predict static properties of full-size lumber and provide an indication of the potential for the wood quality evaluation.