211-258 Wood Science

Credit Points:

Coordinator:

Timetable:

Contact:

Objectives:

On completion of this subject, students should: be able to describe the macroscopic and microscopic features of hardwood and softwood xylem and phloem; comprehend information regarding variability of wood; understand methods used to identify timbers; describe the processes of wood and bark formation including cell differentiation, cell wall layering and modifications; understand the effects of cell wall organisation on some wood properties; have a basic understanding of the chemical composition and properties of wood; understand anatomical, chemical and physical characteristics associated with heartwood formation, growth stresses, reaction wood and natural features in wood; comprehend the meaning of a number of wood physical properties and basic wood-moisture relationships.

Content:

Wood and bark structure, anatomy and ultrastructure. Macroscopic and microscopic features of wood. Tree growth and wood quality, woody cell development, reaction wood, variability of wood. Identification methods, growth rings and measurement of wood properties. Wood chemistry, extractives, collapse. Natural characteristics, and physical properties of wood.

Assessment: