Acoustic properties assessment of neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.) wood from trees irrigated with secondarily treated wastewater

Abstract

The availability of traditional wood species used for musical instrument manufacturing has decreased in recent years. To overcome this problem, there is a need for alternative woods with acoustical properties similar to those traditionally used. This study investigated the acoustical properties of neem wood (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.) from trees irrigated with treated wastewater as a substitute for traditional wood and to indicate its suitability for musical instrument manufacturing. The results revealed a strong linear relationship between the dynamic modulus of elasticity (Ed) and shear modulus (G). Moreover, density (ρ) was a good predictor for both Ed and G. The findings showed that this wood has potential use in backs and ribs of stringed musical instruments. Comparison with traditional European wood species used for this purpose showed that this wood can be a successful alternative. Increased demand for water and diminishing availability of water resources have led to the use of treated wastewater in irrigation. Thus, extension of the cultivation of several tree species with close properties to traditional tonewood species under wastewater irrigation can play an important role in the future of the musical instrument industry.