Evaluation of Physical and Mechanical Properties of Selected Wood Species obtained from Saw Mills in Akure, Nigeria

Abstract

The strength and sorption properties of selected wood species obtained from saw mills in Akure Nigeria were investigated based on key index properties such as density, bending strength and dimensional stability using appropriate standard experimental techniques. Data obtained from the experimental investigation revealed that the wood species ranged from low density 442.8 kg/m³ for Terminalia superba (Afara), through medium density 464 kg/m³ and 552.8 kg/m³ for Pycnanthus angolensis (Akomu) and Gmelina arborea (Gmelina) respectively, to high density 635.7kg/m³ and 678.2 kg/m³ for Milicia excelsa (Iroko) and Stereospermum acuminatissimum (Omo cedar) respectively. The bending strength values obtained qualified the wood species classification into low bending strength (25 N/mm² _– 75 N/mm² ) for Afara, Akomu and Gmelina and the medium static bending strength in the range (75 N/mm² – 125 N/mm²) for Iroko and Omo cedar. Furthermore, results of volumetric shrinkage and swelling are 7.21%: 5.04%, 7.75%: 5.26% and 7.84%: 6.69% for Afara, Akomu and Gmelina respectively while Iroko and Omo cedar recorded 10.95%: 7.84% and 11.08%: 11.08%. These updated results could be useful for wood selection for building construction application; for structural members in roofing, posts and beams.