| 1. |
- Bader, Thomas K., et al.
(author)
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Microstructure–Stiffness Relationships of Common Yew and Norway Spruce
- 2012
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In: Strain. - : Wiley. - 0039-2103 .- 1475-1305. ; 48:4, s. 306-316
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Yew (Taxus baccata L.) exhibits among conifers a unique macroscopic elastic behaviour. For example, it shows a comparatively low longitudinal elastic modulus related to its comparatively high density. We herein explore the microstructural origin of these peculiarities, aiming at the derivation of microstructure–stiffness relationships. We measure stiffness properties of yew at different hierarchical levels and compare them to corresponding stiffnesses of Norway spruce (Picea abies [L.] Karsten). Cell wall stiffness is investigated experimentally by means of nanoindentation in combination with microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. On the macroscopic level, we perform uniaxial tension and ultrasonic tests. Having at hand, together with previously reported stiffnesses, a consistent data set of mechanical, chemical and physical properties across hierarchical levels of wood, we discuss influences of microstructural characteristics at different scales of observation. Moreover, a micromechanical model is applied to predict trends of effects of the microstructure on the investigated stiffness properties. On the cell wall level, particularly, the amount of cellulose and its orientation – which was earlier reported to be distinctly different for yew and spruce – result in differences between the two considered species. On the macroscopic scale, model predicted effects of the annual ring structure on transverse stiffness and shear stiffness are found to be smaller than effects of the microfibril angle and mass density.
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| 2. |
- Bjurhager, Ingela, et al.
(author)
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Mechanical performance of yew (Taxus baccata L.) from a longbow perspective
- 2013
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In: Holzforschung. - : Walter de Gruyter GmbH. - 0018-3830 .- 1437-434X. ; 67:7, s. 763-770
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Yew (Taxus baccata L.) longbow was the preferred weapon in the Middle Ages until the emergence of guns. In this study, the tensile, compression, and bending properties of yew were investigated. The advantage of yew over the other species in the study was also confirmed by a simple beam model. The superior toughness of yew has the effect that a yew longbow has a higher range compared with bows made from other species. Unexpectedly, the mechanical performance of a bow made from yew is influenced by the juvenile-to-mature wood ratio rather than by the heartwood-to-sapwood ratio. A yew bow is predicted to have maximized performance at a juvenile wood content of 30-50%, and located at the concave side (the compressive side facing the bowyer). Here, the stiffness and yield stress in compression should be as high as possible.
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