Three-point bending test evaluation of some wood properties of ebony (Diospyros mespiliformis) in Nigeria grown timber

This study presents a relationship between developed physical and mechanical properties of Nigerian grown Ebony ((Kanyan) Diospyros mespiliformi) timber. This is in order to determine the full potential for its utilization. Wood specimens for the test were prepared and determined in accordance with EN 13183-1 (2002) and EN 408 (2003). The mechanical properties were determined using three point bending test in accordance with ASTM D193 (2000). The mean moisture content, oven dry density, bulk density, bending strength, and modulus of elasticity were found to be 30.52% (MC), 768.56 Kg/m3 (DD), 1060.89 Kg/m3 (BD), 72.55 N/mm2 (BS) and 11722.78 N/mm2 (MOE) respectively. A relationship between the properties was determined using regression equation. The best relationship was between DD and MOE (R2 =0.893) and DD and BS (R2 = 0.894) followed by BS and MOE (R2 =0.813) then