Comparative studies on wood structure and microtensile properties between compression and opposite wood fibers of Chinese fir plantation

The microtensile properties of mechanically isolated compression wood (CW) and opposite wood (OW) tracheids of Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata) were investigated and discussed with respect to their structure. Major differences in the tensile modulus and ultimate tensile stress were found between CW and OW fibers. Compared to OW, CW showed a larger cellulose microfibril angle, less cellulose content and probably more pits, resulting in lower tensile properties. These findings contribute to a further understanding of the structural–mechanical relationships of Chinese fir wood at the cell and cell wall level, and provide a scientific basis for better utilization of plantation softwood.