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Among the high-grade woods used in special projects, Azobe stands out. It is imported mainly from African countries and is known as an exceptionally strong and durable timber. Azobe wood is dark brown to reddish brown in color, with fine to medium texture and hard, dense grain — making it suitable for special construction, heavy timber structures, bridge frameworks, decking, and exterior work. Because of its long-lasting and extremely durable properties, it commands a high commercial value, and its international market price is considerably higher than that of local woods.
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Local Name | Azobe / Red Ironwood |
| Scientific Name | Lophira alata |
| Origin | West and Central Africa — Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, Nigeria, Cameroon, etc. |
| Cultivation / Use in Bangladesh | Does not grow naturally in Bangladesh; imported for heavy timber structures, bridges, decking, railway sleepers, and industrial use |
| Color | Deep reddish brown to striking red; darkens with age |
| Texture | Medium to fine grain; hard and heavy, sometimes with rough or wavy grain |
| Density | About 1,020–1,200 kg/m³ (air dry); very dense and heavy wood |
| Janka Hardness | ~ 2,300 – 2,700 lbf (~ 10,200 – 12,000 N) |
| Radial Shrinkage | ~ 3.5 – 4.0 % |
| Tangential Shrinkage | ~ 6.5 – 7.0 % |
| Crushing Strength | ~ 80 – 95 MPa (parallel to grain) |
| Weight | Extremely heavy and dense wood |
| Strength | Extremely hard — nearly “iron-like”; perfect for construction and industry |
| Elasticity | Moderate; being extremely hard, it is somewhat less flexible |
| Moisture Tolerance | Excellent; nearly immune to water and moisture damage |
| Insect Resistance | Naturally resistant to termites and other insects |
| Uses | Bridges, decking, railway sleepers, heavy timber structures, industrial and machinery applications |
| Harvesting Age | 40–60 years (natural forest) |
| Price Range | Approx. Tk 2,500 – 4,500 per CFT (depending on grade and import source) |
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