Initial Moisture Content and Density and Drying Rate of Three Pine Species Growing in the Natal Midlands

Abstract

SYNOPSIS In this the first of a two-part report, results are given of investigations into the vertical distribution of the moisture content and density of wood and bark, as well as into bark thickness, bark mass and bark volume of two age groups of Pinus elliottii and P. patula trees and one of P. taeda. Variation in wood and bark properties was affected more by position in the stem than by species and age. This precludes the determination of reliable mass/volume conversion figures if stem position is not taken into consideration. The mass loss of logs of the above species after various periods of drying and the development of mass/volume conversion figures will form part of a further report.