DefinePK

Abstract

ABSTRACT Anatomical properties of commercially less important timbers grown in Punjab were studied to assess their technological properties and predict better utilization other than the traditional uses. Permanent slides of cross, radial and tangential sections of each species were prepared by standard laboratory techniques and observed under the microscope for various structural features. Data were collected for the frequency and dimensional measurements of different wood elements/ structures in each species. Results showed that on the basis of fiber morphological characteristics, the wood of Phulai, Ipip Ipil, Black Siris and White Siris may be stronger or better in strength whereas, Pipal, Lasura and Jand may be medium and Gul-i-Nishtar light in strength. Due to abundant axial parenchyma, higher frequency or larger size of wood rays, the wood of all the studied species need preservative treatment before their utilization. The vessels are larger in diameter in Gul-i-Nishter, White Siris, Pipal and Lasura wood, and these can be easily seasoned and preserved. Whereas, in Phulai, Black Siris, Ipil Ipil and Jand, the vessels are medium sized or smaller in diameter due to which drying process and preservative treatment of these woods may be slow. Furthermore, on the basis of Runkel ratio, the wood of all the studied species may also be suitable for pulp and paper manufacture.