Physical and Mechanical Characterization of Three Egyptian Woody Species

Abstract

Currently, there is lack of data provided in the literature regarding the wood quality of locally grown timber trees. It is known that the wood quality varies greatly from one geographical area to another depending on the growth conditions and environmental factors. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize the wood quality of three hardwoods species; Dalbergia sissoo Roxb. (irrigated with treated wastewater), Morus nigra, and Ficus retusa L. grown in Egypt in order to find the possible utilization of these species. Physical and mechanical properties were compared with the internationally published data in the literature, especially those grown in their native environment of the same three genera. Density, shrinkage characteristics, modulus of rupture (MOR), maximum crushing strength (MCS) and Janka hardness in tangential and radial surfaces (HT and HR) were determined. Simple linear regression analyses revealed strong correlations between density and mechanical strength properties (MOR, MCS, and HT). M. nigra exhibited lower mechanical performance compared with the data reported in the literature. In contrast, D. sissoo showed high mechanical performance, this may be a large part attributed to the irrigation with treated wastewater. However, both species fit the same uses found in the literature. In addition, this study indicates that both species also may serve as an alternative to beech and oak wood used as parquet flooring in Egypt. F. retusa wood can be used as a substitute for imported pine and spruce wood, which are widely used in the local market as wooden strips in the core layer of blockboards.

Environmentally Friendly Chemical Modification of Four Wood Species by Glycerol–Maleic Anhydride Treatment: Physical, Mechanical, and Biological Assessment

“…Wood, owing to its renewable nature and wide range of applications, has drawn the attention of numerous researchers and wood producers interested in analyzing its characteristics to ascertain the best use for each wood species. However, certain woods are sold at high prices due to specific properties or limited availability, necessitating the search for alternatives for certain applications (Hassan, 2019). Despite its versatility, wood does have drawbacks such as low dimensional stability due to fluctuating moisture in the surrounding environment, susceptibility to fungal decay organisms and insect infestations, and vulnerability to weathering when exposed to outdoor conditions for extended periods (Walker, 2006).…”

The Effects of Different Technological Treatments on Ficus retusa Branchwood Particleboard: Physical Properties and Formaldehyde Emission Evaluations

“…Egypt has limited forest resources for lumber production; however, several factories produce wood composites relying on some fast-growing trees, bagasse, rice straw, flax shives, and imported poplar, oak, and beech woods for decorative veneer (Hassan et al, 2020). Besides, imported pine and spruce for blockboard production (Hassan, 2019). The demand for such products is increasing dramatically (Hassan et al, 2020).…”