Wood cells characterization and suitability appraisal of 7- and 9-year-old Cedrela odorata L. (Miliaceae) wood for paper-based products manufacturing

Abstract

This study sought to appraise 7-year and 9-year-old Cedrela odorata for pulp and paper making. Sectioning and maceration processes were adopted. Data were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS version 17.00. Cell characteristics for all ages and tree positions appeared similar but quantitatively, cells in 9-year-old generally exhibited some significant (p < .05) variations. Age and wood position generally had some significant influence on cell characteristics. Fibre lengths were generally short (<1.6 mm or 1600 μm) with variations in fibre morphology being significant axially than radially. In appraising the wood for paper production, derived fibre indices/values viz; Runkel ratio (ranging from 0.19 to 0.28), flexibility coefficient (ranging from 0.78 to 0.83), and slenderness ratio (ranging from 38.98 to 51.72) appeared to provide some positive indications. The species therefore, has potential for pulp and paper production, but further studies on its chemical consumption levels and other properties need to be ascertained towards a well-informed decision.