Abstract
Pinus patula is one of the major exotic species grown in Malawi mainly for saw-timber production. It is native to Mexico. Little has been reported about the mechanical properties of the wood. The objective of this study was to investigate the mechanical properties of Pinus patula in more detail, in order to provide a basis for utilizing this resource. The mechanical properties of small clear wood specimens of Pinus patula were evaluated using 40 cm logs from 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 m above the ground. Small clear wood specimens were selected and subjected to a bending test in accordance with Japan Industrial Standards (JIS) air-dry conditions. The growth rate did not affect the mechanical properties measured. There were significant correlations at 1% level between air-dry density and Modulus Of Elasticity (MOE) (R = 0.85) and between air-dry density and Modulus Of Rupture (MOR) (R = 0.83). There was also a significant correlation between MOE and MOR at 1% level (R = 0.90). At about 12% moisture content, the tested five Pinus patula families have average MOR and MOE of 105.17 MPa and 10.93 GPa, respectively.
Highlights
In Malawi, high demand for wood coupled with high deforestation rates has led to the increase in the adoption of exotic trees and introduction of plantation forestry
The present study looks at the mechanical properties namely: Modulus of Rupture (MOR), Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) and wood density
The main objective of this research was to look at the mechanical properties of Pinus patula in more detail, in order to provide a basis for utilizing this resource in Malawi
Summary
In Malawi, high demand for wood coupled with high deforestation rates has led to the increase in the adoption of exotic trees and introduction of plantation forestry. Pinus patula is one of the major exotic species grown in Malawi It is planted about 80% of Malawi’s 74,000 ha of softwood plantation. The species are mainly used for sawtimber Despite their wide use for structural purposes among other uses, no detailed mechanical properties research has been done to determine the strength of the species under Malawi growth conditions. This is because, in Malawi, just like many other species, research on Pinus patula has concentrated on the height growth, volume and form.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
