Variables affecting the strength of balsa wood

Abstract

Tests have been carried out to determine the strength of balsa wood and its variation with density. Particular attention is paid to the tensile strength of balsa loaded at different angles to the grain and a simple theory of failure is derived from the results. The compressive strength and modulus of elasticity are also reported. Similarities between the mechanical behaviour of balsa wood and unidirectional fibre-reinforced composites are discussed. Adequate data are presented for the design of balsa wood structures.