The role of vascular bundles on the mechanical properties of coconut palm wood

Abstract

This study examines certain physical, mechanical, and anatomical characteristics of coconut palm wood. The results show a correlation between the anatomical characteristics and density as well as lengthwise compression. All properties (density, frequency of vascular bundles (VBs), and mechanical properties) increase with the transverse distance from the center of the trunk. The study also tests VBs from different radial sections of the coconut palm tree (Cocos nucifera) for diameter, ultimate tensile strength, and modulus of elasticity. The influence of the VBs on the overall properties of the wood is discussed.

Keywords:

• Anatomical structure
• coconut wood
• physical and mechanical properties
• vascular bundles

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Prof. Dr. Antonio Silva Guzman, Universidad de Guadalajara, Mexico for providing the test material and Dr. Gerald Koch (TI Hamburg) for helpful discussions and Mr. Sergej Kaschuro for his help in the preparation of fibers.