Crack equivalent based method applied to wood fracture characterization using the single edge notched-three point bending test

In this work the single edge notched-three point bending test applied to wood fracture characterization in mode I is analysed. A new data reduction scheme founded on the equivalent linear elastic fracture mechanics with remarkable advantages relatively to classical methods is proposed. The method is based on the beam theory accounting for a triangular stress relief region and on the crack equivalent concept. it does not require crack monitoring during its propagation and provides a complete R-curve which is fundamental for a clear identification of the fracture energy. The model was validated numerically by means of a bilinear cohesive damage model which allows the simulation of damage initiation and growth. The size of the stress relief region in the neighbouring crack zone was estimated and a consistent value was found relatively to the one achieved by other authors. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.