Abstract
Mode I and Mode II initiation fracture toughness was examined by DCB (double cantilever beam) and 3ENF (three-point bend end notched flexure) tests on specimens of compressed Sitka spruce. The compressed wood was fabricated by varying the compression ratio, and the effectiveness of the compression treatment was examined in view of improving the fracture mechanics properties. In both cases, the fracture toughness did not show a significant increase after the compression treatment. Thus, it would be necessary to develop a new compression treatment method to improve the fracture mechanics properties.