Effect of load type on failure mechanisms of spruce in compression parallel to grain

Failure mechanisms of small clear specimens (6×6×24 mm) of air-dried black spruce (Picea mariana) under parallel-to-grain compression were investigated by polarised-light microscopy. Fatigue load was used with a peak stress level of 90% static strength, a load frequency of 0.5 Hz, and a square waveform with a duty ratio of 0.50. Matched ‘pure’ creep and static load tests were carried out. Damage was quantified in terms of the permanent microstructural changes (kinks) in tracheid walls. In static load tests, kinks develop quickly with any increase in stress beyond the limit of proportionality. In creep tests, damage develops mainly from kinks formed during the initial load application. In fatigue tests, damage develops both from kinks formed during the initial load cycle, and kinks formed during subsequent cycles. The number of kinks exhibits a strong relationship with relative cyclic creep or relative creep.