Experimental analysis of axial variation in physical and mechanical properties of Detarium microcarpum wood and its potential for sustainable utilization

Abstract

This study addresses the limited availability of scientific data on the physical and mechanical properties of Detarium microcarpum (sweet detar) wood, which constrains its evaluation as a potential timber resource. An experimental characterization was conducted using wood samples obtained from three mature trees in Walateng-Goziir, Nandom Municipality, Ghana. The stems were sectioned into bottom, middle, and top portions to assess axial variation. Physical properties (moisture content, oven-dry density, volumetric shrinkage, and swelling) and mechanical properties (modulus of elasticity, modulus of rupture, compression parallel to grain, and shear strength) were determined at 12 % moisture content using standardized methods. The results showed significant axial variation (p < 0,05) across all measured properties. Moisture content increased from 13,78 % at the base to 16,35 % at the top, while oven-dry density decreased from 775,84 kg/m³ to 670,28 kg/m³. Mechanical properties also declined along the stem height, with modulus of elasticity decreasing from 6453,78 MPa to 5996,44 MPa. These findings provide empirical data that contribute to the scientific understanding of Detarium microcarpum (sweet detar) wood and support its evaluation as a lesser-used species with potential for timber applications.