Anatomical and Mechanical Properties of the Bur-Flower Tree (Anthocephalus chinensis)

Abstract

The anatomical and mechanical properties of wood samples from the Bur-flower tree, Anthocephalus chinensis were tested from two different localities and at three different ages. Anatomical features such as fiber and vessel dimensions, as well as mechanical properties were analyzed. The
purpose of this research was to study wood properties and uses of A. chinensis. The features evaluated showed A. chinensis has a white to yellowish-white surface and is medium-to-coarse in texture. It has straight grain and a non-lustrous surface. The average width of vessels was 151 μm and the average fiber length was 1,700 μm. The mechanical properties evaluated showed the modulus of rupture (MOR) and modulus of elasticity (MOE) of A. chinensis were approximately 58 MPa and 5.5 GPa and the specific gravity was between 0.35 and 0.42. From the tested and observed results, A. chinensis was evaluated as a low strength and naturally durable wood.