Abstract:
Basic density and strength properties of Cordia
africana Lam. grown in agroforestry systems in
Lushoto, Tanga were determined. Six sample
trees were randomly selected in the same farm
at Shashui village near Soni. After measuring
dbh the trees were felled and total tree height
recorded. Four discs were cut at breast height,
30%, 60% and 90% of the total tree height for
basic density determination. A one metre long
log was cut above 1.3m for strength properties
determination. A central plank measuring 6cm
including pith was sawn in east-west direction
from each log. Standard methods were used in
determination of basic density and strength
properties. The main findings of this study were
as follows:
Basic density was 0.40g/cm3; Basic density
increased moderately from the pith to a certain
point after which it remained more or less
constant; Basic density decreased from the butt
to the top of the tree. Mean values for modulus
of rupture, modulus of elasticity, maximum
crushing stress and shear parallel to grain,
compression stress and cleavage perpendicular
to grain were lower than those for common
hardwoods such as Ocotea usambarensis and
Albizia spp. found in Lushoto. There was
positive correlation between basic density and
strength properties.
It was recommended that, wood from C.
africana grown in Lushoto and other areas with
similar soil and climatic conditions could be
used for light construction work and furniture
making. It was further recommended that, more
studies should be done in other geographical
conditions where the species is grown so as to
make concrete conclusions on efficient
utilization of the species.
