Specific gravity and fiber morphology from Gelam tree (Melaleuca spp) based on bottom and middle stem height / Mustaedah Yusop

The objectives of this study are to determine a Specific Gravity of Gelam tree between bottom and middle stem height and fiber morphology of Gelam tree between stem height (bottom and middle) and radial distance (near pith and near bark). The special characteristic of Gelam tree is its thick spongy and papery bark. The air-dry density of Gelam is 750 kg/m3. The wood is strong and similar to karri in general strength properties. It is classified as durable. Three sample of Gelam trees in diameter 3.5,4.5, 5.5 cm DBH are choose. From log it must clit into discs, cubes and matchsticks. Then the cubes use in to determine Specific Gravity and matchsticks are used in to determine fiber morphology by fiber maceration and microscopic observation.