Early prediction of basic density, shrinking, presence of growth stress, and dynamic elastic modulus based on the morphological tree parameters of Tectona grandis

Significant efforts have been made to improve teak; however, evaluation in juvenile step is limited. The objective of this study was to conduct an early assessment of the wood properties of 4-year-old Tectona grandis. Samples of 36 clones were collected to determine their morphological tree parameters [diameter a breast height (DBH), diameter of the second log, tree height, and log quality]. Presence of growth stress, heartwood percentage, shrinkage (radial, tangential, and volumetric), basic density, and ultrasound velocity (USV) were determined for standing trees, logs, green lumber, and dry lumber. The results indicate that DBH and USV in standing trees can be used to predict elastic module (ED), mainly ED of the standing tree and dry lumber, as well as the possible presence of growth stress. Additionally, growth stress can be predicted by UVS in standing tree. Tangential and volumetric shrinkage were not predicted by tree morphology, but radial shrinkage was predicted by diameter and UVS was not affected by any shrinkage. Basic density was predicted by DBH and UVS measured in log.