Investigation on mechanical and of Sri Lankan timber species for construction applications

Abstract

Timber has been a prominent construction material for construction from the beginning of human civilization. The research aims at investigating the mechanical properties and durability (against chemical attack) of locally sourced wood species to be used in the construction industry. Authentication test of species, specific gravity, durability, compressive strength, bending strength, tensile strength and shear strength tests were conducted for locally available timber species. From the 34 species investigated, 24 species were observed to have viable properties to be used as softwood and hardwood timber in construction. After being exposed to sulfuric testing, compressive strength results (parallel to grain) of Pihibiya (Filicium decipiens) and Muttikadol (Xylocarpus granatum) were only reduced by 4.3% and 1.6%, respectively. This is evidence of the two species having strong chemical resistivity. Bala, Katta Kumanjal, Muttikadol, Wal Jambu, Karambu, Malkaralla and Thammanna were identified as underutilized timber species in the local context, having bending strengths over 25 N/mm2. Overall, this research is important for the international society as it contributes to sustainable resource management, economic development, environmental conservation, standardization, and knowledge exchange.

Keywords

• Angiosperm tree species
• Construction materials
• Mechanical and physical properties
• Chemical attack