Effect of macro characteristics on rolling shear properties of fast-growing poplar wood laminations
Rolling shear modulus (GR) and strength (fR) of the cross layers are decisive mechanical properties in cross-laminated timber (CLT) plates. The influences of macro characteristics, such as annual ring orientation, distance to pith, and presence of pith on the rolling shear properties of fast-growing poplar boards were evaluated throughout this study. It were found the presence of pith had significant influence on the rolling shear properties of poplar board. Distance to pith and annual ring orientation both had effects on the rolling shear properties jointly. The rolling shear properties increase with the increase of distance to pith. The mean rolling shear modulus and characteristic rolling shear strength values of the poplar wood were determined to be 177 MPa and 2.24 MPa, respectively, which indicates a great potential of using poplar wood as the cross-layers in CLT.