IMPACT OF THERMAL TREATMENT ON THE PHYSICAL AND MECHANICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF IROKO WOOD

Abstract:

This study aims to explore the impact of thermal treatment on the physical and mechanical attributes of a specific type of native Nigerian wood. To accomplish this objective, Iroko (Milicia excels) wood samples were sourced from the Ala forest in Akure, Ondo state, Nigeria, and subjected to varying temperatures (80°C, 100°C, 120°C, 140°C, and 160°C) for a consistent duration of 6 hours. Additionally, the wood was exposed to different time durations at a constant temperature of 120°C. Various properties, including moisture content, density, dimensional changes, shear strength, compression strength, tensile strength, and modulus of rupture in static bending (MOR), were examined. The findings indicate that as treatment temperature and duration increased, all studied properties exhibited a decline, except for hardness, which exhibited an opposite trend. Notably, at 120°C, Iroko wood demonstrated optimal physical and mechanical characteristics comparable to Teak, rendering it suitable for a wide range of technological applications, such as handles for agricultural tools and implements. Its durability makes it a viable choice for applications in boat construction, marine structures, railroad ties, as well as numerous carpentry, joinery, flooring, furniture, veneer, and cabinet-making projects.