On the distribution of tree growth stresses

Summary A model for the build up of residual growth stresses in cylindrical tree stems is presented. By using Bessel functions the general equations can be solved to allow for surface strain distributions that vary both in the circumferential as well as longitudinal directions. An arbitrary surface strain distribution can be decomposed into Fourier components and the residual internal stresses can be found by superimposing the component solutions due to each new increment of growth. A numerical simulation leading to the residual stress distribution for a typical hardwood is presented.