Basic density, modulus of elasticity and modulus of rapture of Artocarpus heterophyllus

Abstract

Artocarpus heterophyllus is increasingly being utilised in the furniture industry despite the limited information regarding its properties. This study was conducted to categorise A. heterophyllus based on its basic density, Modulus of Elasticity and Modulus of Rapture. Specimens were prepared from three mature trees (≥15 years of age) obtained from a farmland in Nyabyeya parish, Budongo Sub-county, Masindi district. From each tree three bolts of height 800 mm were cut at Diameter at Breast Height (1.3 m), 45% tree height and 75% of tree height. The bolts were sawn into scantlings using through and through method. Specimens for static bending and basic density tests were prepared according to Lavers (1983). Bending tests were done in accordance with BS 373 (1957) using a Testometric AX Universal Testing Machine. Basic density was determined by the water displacement method. The mean MOE was 6,378 Nmm^-2, the mean MOR was 119 Nmm^-2 and mean basic density was 458 Kgm^-3. Based on these properties, A. heterophyllus qualifies as light construction timber. However, further research on other strength properties of A. heterophyllus is recommended for effective utilisation of its wood for structural purposes.