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Estimation of the Dynamic Elastic Properties and Energy Dissipation Capacity of Wood from Ochroma Pyramidale (Balsa)

Abstract:

The research of this paper aims at understanding, from an engineering perspective, the optimized mechanical efficiency of senile balsawood stem-tissues as concept generators for potential applications. Particularly, the objectives of this study are to determine, evaluate, and analyze the dynamic elastic properties and energy dissipation capacity of senile lightweight balsawood. To achieve these objectives, in accordance with the current American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards, a total of 40 specimens (i.e., 20 low-density and 20 high-density samples) were tested under static bending mechanical mode and technics of transversal vibration to determine static and dynamic Modulus of Elasticity (MOE), respectively. On the other hand, 8 samples (i.e., 4 low-density and 4 high-density samples) were subjected to Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) process to compare the internal tissue of high and low density samples and their relationship with the dynamic and static MOEs. The dynamic MOE data were validated throughout 10 Finite Element Analyses (FEA) in LS-Dyna. The results show a high correlation between static and dynamic MOEs (R2 = 96.47%), which are directly proportional to density. Furthermore, SEM analysis reflects that the increase of double wall thickness affects the material energy dissipation capacity which consequently derives that low density balsa wood is the most suitable for energy dissipation applications.