Axial and radial variation in physical and chemical properties of Borassus flabellifer L. (Palmyra palm)

ABSTRACT

A variation study of physical and chemical properties at different radial and axial levels of Borassus flabellifer tree was carried out for the first time. An increasing trend in specific gravity from the centre (NC) towards near the bark (NB) has been observed at all three highest i.e. bottom, middle, and top of the tree. Colour analysis of the wood samples has shown a decreasing order of colour intensity (light to dark) from the NC to the NB positions. Holocellulose, hemicellulose, α-cellulose, and lignin content ranged from 64.19 to 73.42%, 17.5 to 26.85%, 42.22 to 51.02%, and 24.57 to 26.98% respectively. Lignin content was found maximum for the middle of the tree, followed by top and bottom height. Total extractives and ash content were found 1.92%–5.43% and 0.94%–1.69% respectively. This study found that B. flabellifer wood can be potentially utilised for various purposes, such as paper and pulp, and furniture making.

KEYWORDS:

• Borassus flabellifer
• palmyra palm
• colour
• specific gravity
• hemicellulose
• α-cellulose
• lignin
• chemical composition

Acknowledgements

Partial work of this manuscript was financially supported by the Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education (ICFRE), Dehra Dun, India. The authors are thankful to the Director General, ICFRE, and the Director for their encouragement during the course of the studies.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education.