A new data reduction scheme for mode I wood fracture characterization using the double cantilever beam test

This paper describes experimental and numerical studies on double cantilever beam test applied to fracture characterization of wood in mode I. A new data reduction scheme based on the beam theory and specimen compliance is proposed in order to overcome the difficulties inherent to crack monitoring during propagation. A cohesive damage model adapted to wood is used to simulate the test. The cohesive properties are evaluated using an inverse method based on a developed Genetic Algorithm through an optimisation strategy. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology as a suitable data reduction scheme for the double cantilever beam test. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.