Mechanical properties of Cryptomeria japonica by the differences of stand characteristics in Southern Region of Korea

Abstract

Mechanical properties of woods are easily affected by the differences of site environment such as soil and climate changes. In this study, the relationship between mechanical properties and growth factors for Cryptomeria japonica stands in Jeollanam-do Province, Gyeongsangnam-do Province and Je-ju island was analyzed. From these plot data, bending strength, compressive strength, and shear strength were analyzed by Duncan's new multiple range test. The results of Duncan's new multiple range test analysis indicated that bending strength, compression strength, and shear strength were positively related to tree mean height, and stem number per ha, respectively, while they were inversely proportional to DBH (diameter at breast height), elevation, and soil drainage. As a result of this study, there are high correlations between mechanical properties of wood and stand characteristics of Cryptomeria japonica by the region, this findings are very useful to apply the silvicultural treatment system to produce high quality timber as a basic data on this species (distributed in southern region of Korea).