Relationship between site index and several mechanical properties of Turkish calabrian pine (Pinus brutia Ten.)

Abstract

In this study, the mechanical properties (e.g., compressive, bending (modulus of rupture [MOR]), izod impact, and tensile strengths) of calabrian pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) wood naturally grown in the K.Maras province of Turkey were investigated as a function of site index. The tests of the mechanical properties were performed on the clear small specimens of calabrian pine selected from the most suitable stands in the province and prepared as described in Turkish Standards. The results of statistical analyses revealed that the site index was an important factor influencing the mechanical properties of calabrian pine wood. Significant differences among all the types of site indexes (1, 11, and 111) studied were found for compressive strength parallel to the grain and tensile strength perpendicular to the grain. However, significant differences were found between only two site indexes for MOR and izod impact strength. Site index should be taken into account as an important parameter when using calabrian pine lumber.