Bongossi wood (also known as Azobé or Ekki) is a highly versatile and durable hardwood native to tropical regions in West and Central Africa. It is commonly used for various heavy-duty and outdoor applications due to its exceptional strength, durability, and natural resistance to decay and pests.
Bongossi Wood Uses Are Wide And Varied
Some of its common uses include:
- Marine Construction: Bongossi wood is popularly used for marine construction, including piers, docks, and seawalls, as it can withstand constant exposure to water without deteriorating.
- Bridge Building: The wood’s high strength and load-bearing capacity make it suitable for bridge construction, including structural components and decking.
- Railroad Ties: Bongossi wood is employed as railroad ties and sleepers due to its toughness and ability to withstand wear from heavy train traffic.
- Heavy Construction: The wood is used in various heavy construction projects, such as support beams, foundation posts, and industrial flooring.
- Fencing and Decking: Bongossi wood is a popular choice for fencing and decking due to its durability and natural resistance to weather and insects.
- Civil Engineering: It is utilized in civil engineering applications, including retaining walls and sound barriers.
- Outdoor Furniture: Bongossi wood is employed in crafting outdoor furniture due to its ability to withstand outdoor conditions.
- Utility Poles: The wood’s strength and resistance to decay make it suitable for utility poles and electrical infrastructure.
- Wharves and Jetties: Bongossi wood is utilized for constructing wharves and jetties in coastal areas due to its resistance to marine borers and saltwater.
- Heavy-Duty Flooring: Its toughness and resistance to wear make it an excellent choice for flooring in industrial and commercial spaces.
The exceptional properties of Bongossi wood make it a reliable and preferred option for demanding applications where strength, durability, and resistance to environmental factors are crucial.
Bongossi Facts And Figures Summarized
Here’s a table with 15 interesting and important characteristics of Bongossi trees and wood:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Tree Name | Bongossi (Lophira alata) |
| Tree Height | Can grow up to 40-50 meters (131-164 feet) |
| Trunk Diameter | Large trunk diameter, up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) |
| Growth Environment | Native to tropical regions in West and Central Africa |
| Wood Color | Heartwood ranges from reddish-brown to dark brown |
| Wood Grain | Interlocked or irregular grain pattern |
| Density | Very dense hardwood with a density of about 900-1,100 kg/m³ (56-69 lbs/ft³) |
| Durability | Highly durable and resistant to decay, termites, and marine borers |
| Workability | Considered moderately difficult to work with |
| Stability | Exhibits good dimensional stability |
| Finishing Qualities | Finishes well, with natural oils present in the wood |
| Natural Resistance | Naturally resistant to weather, fungi, and insects |
| Odor | Bongossi wood has a distinct, aromatic odor |
| Fire Resistance | Known for its fire-resistant properties |
| Common Uses | Marine construction, bridge building, railroad ties, heavy construction, decking, fencing, outdoor furniture, utility poles, etc. |
Sourcing Bongossi Wood May Be Challenging
If you live in an area where Bongossi is grown or otherwise available, sourcing it might not be a problem. But if you have to import it, this will increase your cost and the work involved. This may also impact your ability to find someone who has experience with this specific wood, too. Something to keep in mind when choosing your wood.
To source Bongossi wood, you can explore the following options:
- Local Suppliers: Check with local lumberyards, timber merchants, or woodworking shops that deal with exotic hardwoods. They may carry Bongossi wood or be able to place an order for you.
- Online Retailers: Many online retailers and specialty wood suppliers offer Bongossi wood for purchase. Look for reputable sellers that provide detailed information about the wood’s origin and sustainability.
- Direct Import: If you are in a region with close proximity to West and Central Africa, you may consider importing Bongossi wood directly from sustainable sources. However, ensure compliance with international trade regulations and obtain proper documentation.
- Reclaimed or Salvaged Wood: Sometimes, Bongossi wood may be available as reclaimed or salvaged material from old structures or projects. Check with salvage yards or reclaimed wood dealers for potential availability.
Bongossi Substitutes Are Available When Necessary
Are you finding it difficult to source Bongossi for your project? You might be able to attain the look you want with a different wood.
As for substitutes, several hardwood species can be considered as alternatives to Bongossi wood for various applications. Some possible substitutes include:
- Greenheart (Chlorocardium rodiei): Greenheart wood shares similar durability and strength, making it a substitute for marine construction and heavy outdoor use.
- Purpleheart (Peltogyne spp.): Purpleheart wood offers good durability and an attractive purple color, making it a substitute for aesthetic outdoor applications.
- Ipe (Tabebuia spp.): Ipe wood is known for its durability, making it a potential alternative for decking and outdoor furniture.
- Massaranduba (Manilkara huberi): Massaranduba wood possesses similar strength and resistance, making it suitable for outdoor structures and decking.
- Cumaru (Dipteryx odorata): Cumaru wood is another durable option for outdoor projects and decking.
- Bangkirai (Shorea laevis): Bangkirai wood is known for its durability and resistance to decay, making it suitable for outdoor applications.
When considering substitutes, it is essential to evaluate the specific project requirements, desired properties, and availability of alternative wood species in your region. Consulting with wood experts or suppliers can help you identify the most suitable substitute based on your needs and budget.
Additionally, ensure that any wood you choose is sourced sustainably and ethically.
Final Thoughts
Bongossi (Lophira alata) is a dense and durable hardwood indigenous to West and Central Africa. Its impressive strength, natural resistance to decay, and fire-resistant properties make it a preferred choice for various demanding applications, including marine construction, heavy construction, decking, and utility poles.
The wood’s rich reddish-brown color and distinct aromatic odor add to its appeal in outdoor and structural projects.