Relationship between basic density, compression and bending strength of 8, 12, 18 and 24 year-old Calamus manan cultivated intercropping between rubbertrees

Abstract

Four age-groups of rattans comprising 8, 12, 18 and 24 year-old culms at portions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 from the base were used in this study. The rattans were harvested from two rubber plantation estates in Terengganu and Pahang that possess similar soil characteristics and properties. Generally, the results of the study indicate that rattans with higher basic density possess higher compression and bending strength compares to those with lower values. The lower part of the rattans shows to have higher basic density compare to higher part. The 18 and 24 year old rattans shows to have higher basic density compare to the 8 and 12 year-old The 18 and 24 year old rattans indicate to have 7 to 8 times higher strength compares to younger rattans. It can be concluded that the cultivated rattans of age 18 and above possessed the mechanical characteristics that makes them suitable for utilization. © Academic Journals Inc.