Determination of Physico-chemical properties of selected tropical timbers in Anambra State, South Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

The analyses on chemical properties of some tropical timbers have been studied. The physical properties of these timbers varied in the pH(4.26 – 6.85) , moisture content(13%-37%), specific gravity(0.16-0.45), charring temperature (61 – 116o C)and porosity index(1.17-2.08%).Also the solubility behaviors of these timbers were mostly insoluble in hot and cold water, NaOH and ethanol and slightly soluble in concentrated HCl and H2SO4 respectively. The Qualitative results show heavy presence of flavonoids, saponins, tannis, glycosides, steroids and terpenoids in some of the timbers.Quantitative determinations were carried out and results show that the woods contain chemical constituents which are useful to both humans and industries.