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Variations in wood properties such as basic density, tissue proportion, fibre dimensions and their derived indices, cellulose and lignin content of Melia dubia at five age gradations were examined to evaluate the suitability of the species for pulp and paper production. The study showed that basic density, fibre proportion, fibre length, cell wall thickness, slenderness ratio, solids factor, cellulose and lignin content increased with tree age. However, vessel proportion, fibre width and lumen width decreased. Most of the wood properties were found suitable for making good quality pulp and paper at the age of 4 and 5 years in comparison to other hardwood species among five age gradation. Hence, harvesting at fourth and fifth year of age is suggested in M. dubia for high pulp yield and better paper quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surface quality of papers impregnated with a mimosa tannin resin and a MUF resin for application as surface coating on wood panels was compared. The impregnated papers were conditioned to 23% and 10% moisture contents and pressed on to beech plywood. Moisture content of the impregnated papers before pressing was found to influence the abrasion resistance for both mimosa tannin resin and MUF resin impregnated papers. Colour measurements were carried out to relate the different paper colours to the two different moisture contents at pressing. Mimosa tannin impregnated papers at 23% moisture content had a lighter shade compared to impregnated papers with mimosa tannin resins at 10% moisture content. Impregnated papers with mimosa tannin resin gave excellent results for water vapour resistance, cross-cut test and abrasion resistance compared to papers impregnated with MUF resin according to relevant standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]