Utilization of Some Selected Wood Species in Relation to their Anatomical Features

Abstract

Anatomical features of some selected wood species were investigated in this study. The microscopic properties such as rays, vessels and fibre dimensions were related to the other properties such as the mechanical properties. This study reflected the implication of large pores in Ceiba pentandra, Bombax and some other wood species in printing papers which may require some fillers before they are finished to a smooth surface. The effects of density, small lumen, thick cell wall and some deposits are also presented. Wood micrographs showing microscopic features unique to Ceiba pentandra, Bombax bounopozense and Ricinodendron heudelotii were included as these anatomical properties could explain the reason why some wood are used for different categories construction purposes, furniture, particle boards, matches, boxes, crates, cabinet making and paper. Small- vessel wood species such as Nesogordomia papaverifera, Diospyros mespiliformis and Mansonia altissima were also discussed to possess characteristics that have bestowed fine texture and are often heavy and therefore are often used for flooring, tool handles, sculpture (as in Diospyros mespiliformis) and other heavy constructional purposes. An attempt was made to correlate anatomical properties with mechanical properties such as modulus of rupture (MOR) and modulus of elasticity (MOE) while variability in end uses as a result of different microscopic features was also presented.