This paper studies the long term creep behavior of Raphia Vinifera L. (Arecaceae) under compression. The time-temperature superposition principle was used to develop long term compression creep models for Raphia Vinifera L. (Arecaceae) under compressive load. Creep (10-hours) data were obtained at constant temperature levels ranging from 23°C to 75°C at constant equilibrium moisture content. The data was plotted against log-time, and the resultant time segments were shifted along the log-time axis with respect to ambient conditions (23°C, 10% EMC) and a longer time period. The master curve for each specimen was constructed using power functions, and they predicted the behavior up to years. The spectrum of shift factor as well as the activation energy were evaluated. We also found that the WLF equation was not efficient for temperatures above 75°C for the said material, for such temperatures initiate macroscopic damage on the material.
Creep, TTSP, WLF equation, Activation energy
