Grade Stresses and Strength Group of 15-Year-Old Tamarindus Indica

Tamarindus indica was introduced to Malaysia in the distant past for various food and medicinal uses. Today, the trees of Tamarindus indica are widely found throughout the country. With the trade restriction of ramin (Gonystylus spp.) and the escalated market price of rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis), the readily available Tamarindus indica is a potential alternative for light-coloured timber. The timber of Tamarindus indica can be used for general components of buildings where loadings are not severe. The Janka hardness of Tamarindus indica was fairly high indicating suitability for flooring. This article provides a comprehensive derivation of timber grade stresses and strength grouping procedure of Tamarindus indica planted in Peninsular Malaysia. Through this compilation, engineers and designers can make a fair judgement of the mechanical properties of Tamarindus indica.