Assessment of Density and Anatomical Properties of Nigerian Grown Cocos nucifera Wood

• J.M. Owoyemi

  Department of Forestry and Wood Technology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 704, Akure, Nigeria.

  Author

• T.O. Akintomide

  Department of Forestry and Wood Technology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 704, Akure, Nigeria.

  Author

The knowledge of density and anatomical features of wood is required to understand its morphology prior to its use in order to recommend appropriate treatments and application. Anatomy of coconut wood with its density was investigated in this study. Methods used include sectioning and fibre characterization both along and across the stem of the tree. The mean results obtained for the Fibre Length, Fibre Diameter, Lumen Width and Vessel Diameter were 1.49mm, 0.030mm, 0.02mm, and 0.27mm in that order. Its density was found to vary along the stem. The basic density distribution of Cocos nucifera showed that the middle portion has the highest density of 1107.85kg/m3, followed closely by the base portion with 1052.67 kg/m3 while the top portion recorded the least density of 1003.79 kg/m3. Both the density and anatomical results showed a comparable value which make it a suitable alternative for timber.

1. J.M. Owoyemi, Department of Forestry and Wood Technology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 704, Akure, Nigeria.

   Department of Forestry and Wood Technology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 704, Akure, Nigeria.

2. T.O. Akintomide, Department of Forestry and Wood Technology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 704, Akure, Nigeria.

   Department of Forestry and Wood Technology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 704, Akure, Nigeria.

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