Scientific publications
Charly Julien Nyobe* (Corresponding author)
Other affiliations: National Advanced School of Public Works
René Oum Lissouck
Nyobe Nicolas Stephane
Goumgang Tassile Rolande
Ayina Ohandja Louis Max
Wood Material Science and Engineering
The aim of this work was to study the relationship between the mechanical properties of Cameroonian tropical woods and the moisture content. The forests of the Cameroonian part of the Congo Basin abound in species that are highly solicited for structural applications. However, some species such as okan (Cylicodiscus gabunensis) are overexploited, leading to their disappearance. Bodioa (Anopyxis klaineana) and lotofa (Sterculia rhinopetala) can be used as okan substitutes, as they belong to the same mechanical group. Clear wood was prepared and divided into five groups. Each group was conditioned at a relative humidity and temperature to achieve moisture contents of 12%, 16%, 20%, 24% and 28%. These specimens were subjected to 4-point bending, tensile, compressive and double cantilever beam test. Modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), fracture toughness (GIC), Stress intensity factor (K), bulk density (Db), true density (Dt), tensile and compressive strength were determined. The results showed that moisture content had significant effects on all the mechanical properties measured on clear wood specimens. MOE, MOR, KIC and strengths decreased with increasing moisture content and Db, Dt, GIC increased with increasing moisture content.
