Determination Of Anatomical Features, Physical And Mechanical Properties Of Cashew Wood (Anacardium Occidentale L) From Semi Deciduous Forest, Ghana

Abstract

This study investigates the anatomical, physical and mechanical properties of cashew wood (Anacardium occidentale) sourced from a semi-deciduous forest in Ghana, addressing its potential as an alternative to threatened tropical hardwoods. Wood remains a crucial material for construction and furniture due to its versatility and sustainability. The research focuses on the anatomical, mechanical, and physical properties of A. occidentale to assess its potential for various applications, in the context of challenges regarding the raw material scarcity and ecosystem degradation. The study is based on a destructive testing method on two mature trees, revealing significant fibre characteristics and mechanical properties variations between trees. Results indicated that, the anatomical, mechanical, and physical properties revealed significant variations between tree 1 and tree 2, underscoring the species' versatility for interior design applications, emphasising the need for sustainable forestry practices.