Spatial Variability of Ozigo Wood Beams under Long-Term Loadings in Various Environmental Exposures

Abstract

Timber is a renewable material that should be more used for sustainable construction. While the mechanical behavior and durability of some species have been widely studied in the past, few studies are available for the Ozigo (Dacryodes buettneri) specie. This paper deals with the spatial variability of Ozigo beams subjected to long-term loadings and different environmental conditions. These beams were previously subjected to long-term creep in three environments (air-conditioned, unsheltered, and sheltered) at Masuku in the south-east of Gabon. Various specimens were extracted from these beams to determine its moisture content and subjected to three-point bending tests to obtain the modulus of elasticity and failure stress at various points in the space. The results obtained showed that, after long-term loadings, environmental exposure combined with mechanical loading, play a key role in the mechanical properties of the timber beams. A reduction of strength was found for the specimens extracted from the unsheltered and sheltered outdoor exposures in comparison with those extracted from the air-conditioned exposure. Concerning the spatial variability, statistical tests confirm that there is significant spatial correlation. It was also found that the spatial variation of properties in the beam is not stationary because it was affected by loading and support conditions.