The bending strength and modulus of elasticity properties of plantation-grown Khaya ivorensis (African Mahogany) from Ghana

摘要

In the wake of dwindling timber resources in Ghana, the establishment of plantations has become necessary and the government and industry are actively pursuing this course. Plantations of Khaya ivorensis, which is one of the most valuable wood species, have been established in Ghana. However, concerns have been expressed by industry and stakeholders about the properties of fast-grown plantation trees compared to natural tree stands. It is believed that plantation grown species have relatively inferior wood quality to the trees from the natural stands. Wood properties such as bending strength and stiffness need to be determined to effectively recommend specific end use for the species. The aim of the study was to determine the modulus of rupture (MOR) and modulus of elasticity (MOE) of plantation-grown K. ivorensis and compare with the trees from natural stands. Plantation treeshad higher strength values with a characteristic MOR of 67.35 N/mm2 compared to natural trees with a characteristic MOR of 55.27 N/mm2. Results indicated that the properties of plantation trees were not inferior to the trees from the natural forest, andeven had relatively higher strength properties. Mahogany plantations are therefore recommended to ensure the sustainable supply of the species to the wood industry.