Effect of stand density on specific gravity and selected mechanical properties of cypressus lusitanica mill.

Investigation were made on the effect of stand density on specific gravity, static bending and specific impact resistance of the wood of 32-year-old Cupressus lusitanica grown at two densities of 400 and 500 trees/ha. Five trees were sampled from each stand, out of which, one hundred forty two samples free from visible defects, each for static bending and specific impact resistance were tested.Data are presented on wood specific gravity (density), modulus of elasticity, modulus of rupture, work to maximum load, total work and specific impact resistance. Results show that the values of the tested properties from the lesser-stocked stand (400 trees/ha) were found significantly different (a = 0.05) than that of the relatively densely stocked stand (500 trees/ha). In average value (for Kuke II-9 and Kuke II-10), modulus of elasticity and modulus of rupture were found to increase longitudinally from bottom upward. But, nominal specific gravity, work to maximum load, total work and specific impact resistance showed the same pattern of decreasing (butt - mid log) and increasing (mid - top log). Nominal specific gravity, modulus of elasticity, modulus of rupture and specific impact resistance were found to increase radially from pith outwards (horizontally). While work to maximum load and total work showed both a decreasing and an increasing pattern. Generally, management practices usually influence the physical and mechanical properties of wood.Cupressus lusitanica can be used for low-grade furniture, building, boxes and shuttering as well as for light construction work. It is not suitable for sport goods, tool handles and the like due to its very low stiffness property and hence brittleness.