Investigation on stress distribution at corner joints with wood polymer members using finite element method

In this study, a comprehensive experimental and numerical investigation concerning with structural performance of butted joints constructed with wood-polymer members (poly (furfuryl alcohol)) was carried out under combined stresses in comparison with control specimens. The aim of this research was to enhance performance of these joints in outdoor applications especially under combined stress. For investigation of this joints performance, specimens with two different values of furfurylation at 20% and 65% in comparison with control specimens were evaluated. Mechanical properties of specimens were determined according to ASTM D-143 and materials properties were defined by this properties for modeling. Proportional limit of loading value from experimental was compared with result of FEM model. Result of FEM model completely confirmed experimental results and the validation of model was performed well. To understand about joint behavior at FEM model and to predict the fracture reasons, some properties of fracture mechanics related to wood polymer were used.