Technological properties and suitability determination of some non-commercial timbers on the basis of anatomical properties
Technological properties and suitability determination of some non-commercial timbers on the basis of anatomical properties
Ghulam Mustafa Nasir, Noreen Fatima and Kanwar Muhammad Suleman
ABSTRACT
In order to decrease the pressure on commercial timbers grown and utilized in the country, some non-commercial timbers grown in NWFP such as Ber (Zizyphus mauritiana), Bakain (Melia azedarach), White Bakain (Ailanthus altissima), Phulai (Acacia modesta), Amaltas (Cassia fistula), Paper Mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera), Ghaz (Tamarix aphylla), Chinar (Platanus orientalis) and Ipil Ipil (Leuceana leucocephala) were studied for their anatomical properties to assess their various technological properties and to find out their better utilization on the basis of basic data. Permanent slides of cross, radial and tangential sections of each species were prepared by standard laboratory techniques and observed under the microscope for the structure and dimensional measurements of various wood elements/ structures. Results showed that in Amaltas, Ber, Bakain, White Bakain and Paper mulberry woods, the vessels were sufficient large in diameter and in Chinar and Paper mulberry woods, the frequency of vessels was found to be higher. Therefore, the woods may be easily seasoned and preserved. Amaltas, Chinar, Paper mulberry, Ber, Bakain, White Bakain, and Farash woods the frequency or size of wood rays was found to be higher and the woods may be non-durable. Therefore, chemical treatment of these woods is necessary before utilization as structural timbers for manufacturing of products. In Amaltas, Chinar Ipil Ipil, Bakain, White Bakain and Phulai, the fibers were longer or thick walled and the woods may be stronger or comparatively better in strength properties. Moreover, all the studied woods except Phulai can also be used for pulp and paper manufacturing on the basis of higher fibre morphological characteristics.
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March 2006
Vol. 56, Iss. 1
