A three-dimensional numerical analysis of moisture flow in wood and of the wood’s hygro-mechanical and visco-elastic behaviour

Abstract A three-dimensional numerical model was employed in simulating nonlinear transient moisture flow wood and the wood’s hygro-mechanical visco-elastic behaviour under such conditions. The developed using finite element software Abaqus FEA ® , while taking account of fibre orientation wood. purpose study to assess ability simulate response beams bending climate northern Europe. Four-point tests small clear specimens exposed a constant temperature systematic changes relative humidity were conducted calibrate model. validation then performed on basis four-point test solid timber subjected natural climatic conditions but sheltered from direct effects rain, wind sunlight. character enabled full analysis content stress developments results obtained showed distinction between caused by mechanical loads solely climate. that occurred found have strongest effect state areas which tangential direction material aligned with exchange surface beams. Such be high-tension during drying reversal brought about uneven shrinkage differences outer inner sections