207-270 Wood Science

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; and

• comprehend the meaning of a number of wood physical properties and basic wood-moisture relationships.

Subject content includes:

• 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;

• chemical utilisation of wood;

• engineering properties of wood; and

• natural characteristics, and physical properties of wood.

A three-hour end-of-semester examination (50%), a term project (20%), a practical exam (15%) and two worksheet assignments (7.5% each).

• K Wilson and D J B White, The Anatomy of Wood: Its Diversity and Variability. Stobart & Son Ltd, London, 1986.