An Assessment of Wood Properties of Lesser-Known Timber Species in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Faced with escalating global deforestation, including alarming rates in Sri Lanka, researchers have explored timber as an important and versatile raw material. However, the mechanical properties of locally available lesser-known timber species have not been studied yet; thus, they have not been included in any timber classification system. The existing timber classification system of the State Timber Corporation was based on demand, availability, and previous experience of workability, where mechanical properties have not been considered. The omission of lesser-known timber species in the existing timber classification system has denied their optimum utilisation in the timber industry. The present study was conducted with 20 lesser-known timber species in Sri Lanka to develop a classification system based on mechanical properties: Wood density, Modulus of Rupture (MOR), Modulus of Elasticity (MOE), and Compression parallel to grain (CPN). A Universal Testing Machine (UTM 100PC) was employed to assess the mechanical properties of the selected timber species. Positive linear relationships between density and CPN, MOR, and MOE were observed. The selected lesser-known timber species were then classified according to mechanical properties, and a new type of timber was developed.