New interlaminar shear test for structural wood composites

Interlaminar shear properties of structural wood composites are seldom evaluated. This is a deterrent to widespread introduction of these products as engineering materials into value-added/specialty markets. Current ASTM standards for the determination of interlaminar shear properties are costly. A five-point bending test was used to assess the interlaminar shear strength of specimens cut from oriented strandboard panels of four thicknesses. Generally, shear strength decreased with increasing span length but at a decreased rate. Span-to-depth ratio was determined to be the most accurate size parameter to predict shear strength. Ranges of span-to-depth ratios in which strength was relatively constant were ascertained. Interlaminar shear strengths, evaluated by ASTM D 1037 specimens, were similar to those obtained by five-point bending specimens. Test results indicated that the Purdue test may be a viable alternative to the standard interlaminar shear tests. It is simple and reproducible results are obtained quickly, making it attractive as a quality control test. Also, the test simulates the stresses incurred by structural wood-based panels in the most common end-use application, produces data for general applications as well as for specific end-uses, and has the potential to be used in an on-line mode to assess the flexural and interlaminar shear properties of full-sized panels.

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