A comprehensive multi-scale analytical modelling framework for predicting the mechanical properties of strand-based composites

Abstract

A multi-scale modelling framework was developed for predicting the mechanical properties of strand-based wood composites. This framework is based on closed-form analytical models at three different resolution levels; micro-, meso- and macro-mechanical. A preprocessing step was performed to provide the input data for the three main modelling steps in this framework. Finite element-based mechanical analyses were employed to verify the accuracy of the analytical models developed for the first two steps. The predictive capability of the entire framework was validated using a set of experimental data reported in the literature. Although the methodology presented is general, it has specifically been applied here to predict an important structural property (modulus of elasticity, MOE) of a special strand-based wood composite product, namely, oriented strand board (OSB). The MOE predictions of OSB panels showed reasonable agreement with the available experimental data, thus providing confidence in the practical utility of this easy-to-use and efficient analytical modelling tool for predicting the properties of wood composites employed in structural members.