A finite element model of semi-rigid mortise-and-tenon joint considering glue line and friction coefficient

The aim of this study is to build a new numerical model of a mortise-and-tenon joint based on the finite element method (FEM) considering glue line and friction coefficient to analyze the semi-rigid wood joint. Firstly, the friction coefficient, glue distributions and strengths of the mortise-and-tenon joint were determined by experimental methods. Secondly, these parameters were specified to a T-shaped mortise-and-tenon joint model to build a finite element model of joint by FEM. Finally, both withdrawal and bending load capacity of T-shaped specimens were investigated by experimental and numerical methods. The results showed that the testing methods used to determine the coefficient, distributions and strengths of the glued mortise-and-tenon joint were all effective enough to determine the mechanical properties of the wood mortise-and-tenon joint, and the finite element model of joint can be applied to analyze the semi-rigid mortise-and-tenon joint with consistency beyond 85%. These methods and finite element models will contribute to the analysis of wood products and wood constructions.