Biometrical and physical properties of Persian oak (Quercus brantii Lindl.) in Central Zagros forests

Persian oak (Quercus brantii Lindl.), the family of Fagaceae, is the most important tree species in central Zagros forests. The present study aimed to evaluate the biometrical properties (fiber length, fiber diameter, lumen and cell wall thickness) and physical properties (density and volumetric shrinkage and swelling) of Persian oak in central Zagros forests. For this propose, three normal trees with the diameter between 20to 30 cm were selected and the mentioned properties were evaluated. Disks were cut at breast height from each tree. Testing samples were prepared in radial direction (pith, middle and bark) and then were investigated. The results indicated that the average length, diameter, lumen and cell wall thickness of fiber were 5/971, 8/18, 22/4 and 88/6 μm, respectively. Results also showed that the average density was 0.99±0.14g/cm3 and the volumetric shrinkage and swelling were 11/87 and 13/84 percent, respectively.