Selected strength and machining properties of the wood ofAlbizia coriaria Welw. Ex Oliv. 442,Markhamia lutea(Benth.) K. Schum. andChrysophyllum albidumG. Don 40 used in Uganda's furniture industry

Abstract

The construction boom and implied timber demand in Uganda has led to the use of timber species whose properties are not documented. A study was carried out to establish and document selected properties of timber species used in the furniture industry. Using ASTM:2003 wood testing procedures; specific gravity, machining properties, nail holding capacity and cleavage resistance of Albizia coriaria, Markhamia lutea and Chrysophyllum albidum were assessed at 13% moisture content. Specific gravity of A. coriaria, M. lutea and C. albidum were 764, 684 and 712 kg m–3 while cleavage resistance was 50, 57 and 49 N mm–1 respectively. C. albidum, M. lutea and A. coriaria had excellent, good and poor machining properties respectively. In conclusion, M. lutea and C. albidum are fit for use as decorative members while A. coriaria is fit for use as structural member. Further research on modification of species’ properties to improve their utilisation should be done.