Differences in physical and mechanical wood properties of mesquite (Prosopis laevigata) in four locations in Northeast Mexico

Mesquite wood (Prosopis laevigata is used for a wide range of purposes, e.g. construction, decoration, and energy. The differences in physical and mechanical wood properties of P. laevigata in four locations, northeast Mexico, were investigated. The results showed that densities at 12% Equilibrium Moisture Content (EMC) in the four sites ranged from 0.79-0.91 g 3/cm compared to 0.72-0.84 g 3/cm under oven dry conditions. Tangential and radial shrinkage varied from 2.2- 3.3% and 1.6-1.9%, respectively. Modulus of rupture (MOR) ranged between 97-114 N 2/mm, static and dynamic modulus of elasticity (MOE(stat), MOE(dyn)) varied from 6,580 and 9,669 N 2/mm and 6,677 to 9,984 N 2/mm, respectively. The correlation between MOE(stat) and MOE(dyn) was 0.94. Physical and mechanical wood properties of P.laevigata varied depending on latitude, growth conditions and forest sites. Physical wood properties should be considered by foresters when selecting tree site or individual trees for plantation programs.