DETERMINATION OF PHYSICAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF MASQUARADE TREE

The study endeavours to investigate the physical and mechanical properties of Masquerade Tree (Polyalthia longifolia) with a specific focus on tensile strength, shear strength, and static bending strength. This research aimed to determine the suitability of Masquerade Tree wood for various timber applications by comparing its strength characteristics with other commonly used timber species. To achieve the study's objective, representative samples of Masquerade Tree wood were collected and prepared for testing. Tensile strength, shear strength, and static bending strength tests were conducted according to standardized protocols. Comparative analysis was carried out by referencing existing data on the mechanical properties of other timber species. The results revealed that Masquerade Tree wood exhibited favorable ultimate tensile strength which ranges from 4.06MPa to 4.87MPa and 91.02MPa mean value of modulus of elasticity thereby displaying a substantial resistance to applied forces. It demonstrated commendable shear strength with modulus of rigidity which ranges from 20.84 to 62N/mm2 indicating its potential for applications that require high resistance to parallel forces. The static bending strength of Masquerade Tree wood can withstood maximum load which ranges from 11300N to 12360N thereby showing mean modulus of elasticity of 88.36N/mm2 which was found to be within an acceptable range suggesting its suitability for load-bearing applications. The comparative analysis highlighted similarities and differences between Masquerade Tree wood and other timber species. It indicated that Masquerade Tree wood offers a competitive strength profile when compared to commonly used timber properties.