Mode II fracture properties of parallel neosinocalamus affinis bamboo strand lumber

This study investigates the Mode II fracture properties in the RL and TL planes of parallel neosinocalamus affinis bamboo strand lumber. Eighty End-Notched Flexure (ENF) specimens were designed, varying pre-crack lengths and specimen widths. Digital Image Correlation (DIC) was employed to analyze strain variations during the development of the fracture process zone (FPZ) and crack propagation stages. The Compliance Based Beam Method (CBBM) and equivalent crack length calculations were used to determine the strain energy release rate (G_IIC) of PNABSL. R curves and crack growth rate curves revealed that crack propagation in the RL and TL planes. The results indicated that Mode II fracture propagation in both the RL and TL planes of PNABSL predominantly exhibited self-similar cracking, though the fracture surfaces were rough and uneven, with noticeable fiber bridging. The study found that Mode II fracture propagation was less stable in the RL plane compared to the TL plane, which is attributed to the easier fracturing of thick-walled fiber cells in the RL plane. The critical strain energy release rate for PNABSL was determined, offering valuable insights into its fracture behavior.