Distribution of Mechanical Properties in Annual Growth Rings of Deciduous Trees Measured Using Scanning Nanoindentation

Abstract—The paper presents the results of mechanical properties scanning by means of nanoindentation across the annual growth rings of deciduous trees wood, small-leaved lime (Tilia cordata) and common oak (Quercus robur) in particular. Significant variations in microhardness H and Young’s modulus E radial dependencies have been found for any of the studied species. Results can be useful (1) to amend the understanding the nature of macromechanical properties of various wood species and to reveal the details of their formation depending upon microstructural characteristics, (2) to optimize the technologies of growing, reinforcement and subsequent usage of the wood, (3) to develop new independent methods in dendrochronology and dendroclimatology.