Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the calorific values of charcoal produced from the wood of Gmelina arborea, Tectona grandis and Pentaclethra macrophylla (Bentham). The purpose of this study is to find out the calorific values of charcoal from these different species at different levels and positions in the tree. The wood species were subjected to three different treatments. The results shows that there were significant differences (p<0.05) between the treatments and parameter measured (Top sapwood, Middle sapwood, Base sapwood, Top heartwood, middle heartwood and Base heartwood). T3 gave the highest calorific value of charcoal produced, while middle heartwood gave the best result for all treatments. Based on this investigations T3 (Pentaclethra macrophylla (Bentham) can be used for charcoal production. Forest depletion by man is one of the causes of climate change. Bearing this in mind, we need to exploit our forests in a sustainable manner. Households, especially in the rural settlements rely very much on fuel wood for cooking. This has contributed in no small measure to the depletion of our forests. Extension agencies need therefore to take advantage of the result of this study toencourage households to use charcoal, especially that derived from Pentaclethra macrophylla.