Mechanical Properties of Terminalia catappa from Ghana

Abstract

Ghana is rich in forest resources, of which Terminalia catappa, a wood species of common occurrence is one. Even though sometimes it is used for decorative purposes, however, it grows in the wild. It grows in almost all the regions of the country and does well in the tropics. The parts of the tree such as the leaves, fruits and seeds have been known to be very useful for medicinal and other uses. Some work on the strength properties of the leaves and other parts has also been done, however, strength properties of the wood are yet to be explored. In this study, its mechanical properties such as bending strength, compression parallel to the grain, and shear parallel to the grain properties were determined. The British (BS 373, 1957) and American Society of Testing Materials’ specifications (ASTM D143, 1983) using testing methods for small, clear specimens of wood were used in determining the properties. The results showed that at 18% moisture content the wood has a density of 520 kg/m3 with a mean modulus of rupture of 86.04 Mpa, compressive strength parallel to the grain of 42.02 Mpa, modulus of elasticity of 10,500 Mpa, and shear strength parallel to the grain of 16.42 N/mm2. These strength properties are comparable to that of Strombosia glaucescens. Therefore, T. catappa can be used in applications where this species is used.