Evaluation of Strength Properties of Laguncularia racemosa (White Mangroves) from the Central and Western Regions of Ghana for Efficient Use

Abstract

For a better use of wood as an engineering material, knowledge of its strength properties is important. In building projects, strength properties of wood and wood-based components are crucial. The research was to investigate some mechanical properties of white mangrove (Laguncularia racemosa) in two coastal regions of Ghana, Western and Central regions, to optimise their use. The results showed that, the mean modulus of rupture values of trees from the Central region was between 52.82 and 63.21 Nmm-2 while the mean modulus of rupture values of trees from the Western region was between 51.23 and 56.84 Nmm-2. The mean modulus of elasticity values of trees from Central region was in the range of 6827.24 and 7711.07 Nmm-2 with that from Western in the range of 5852.73 and 7157.55 Nmm-2. The compressive strength parallel to the grain of trees from the central region ranged from 27.05 to 30.73 Nmm-2with that from Western ranged from 24.57 and 28.33 Nmm-2. The study concluded that, Laguncularia racemosa exhibited low strength properties and is therefore not recommended for structural applications where strength is required.