Alik Duju Strength Properties of Teak (Tectona grandis) Grown in Sarawak
Five trees of 20 years old of Teak (Tectona grandis) were obtained from Ladang Tiga, Subis, Miri and a total number of fifty-nine of small clear specimens were tested. The specimens were tested at air dried condition at the average of 15% moisture content and their basic density was 0.59 g/cm3. The average values of modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity and compressive strength parallel to grain were 120 MPa, 14400 MPa and 68.1 MPa respectively. It was observed that smaller diameter tree possessed slightly higher values in term of their strength properties and basic density compared to larger diameter. In addition, there were no differences in strength properties at difference tree height. It was also found that strength and basic density values were higher at outer portion compared to the inner portion of the wood. It was suggested that further study have to be carried out on the effect of anatomical structures on strength and basic density of the timber species.