Characteristic Value of the Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) for Natural and Planted Larch in Northeast China

Abstract

The density and modulus of elasticity (MOE) distribution can provide information on the effectiveness of parametric and non-parametric methods in calculating the characteristic value of MOE. In this study, we aim to determine the optimal distribution model of the actual measured data of the lumber. We also estimate the lumber’s MOE characteristic value and compare the difference in density and MOE between natural and planted larch. Approximately 1200 pieces of dimension lumber of 4 m × 140 mm × 40 mm in size, made from larch and planted larch, were obtained, tested, and the corresponding standard MOE value was calculated. Results revealed the 3-parameter Weibull distribution to be optimal in fitting the natural and planted larch distributions. The parametric method proved effective in calculating the characteristic value of both larch groups, with characteristic MOE values of 9.73 kN/mm2 and 8.84 kN/mm2, and characteristic density values of 530 kg/m3 and 460 kg/m3 for natural and planted larch, respectively. Moreover, the MOE and density values followed grades C40 and C35. Thus, the conclusion is that the parametric method should be used to determine these characteristic values for natural and planted larch.