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What is mango wood?
Mango Wood: Sustainable and Characteristic
Mango wood, sourced from the mango tree (Mangifera indica), is a unique type of wood that is gaining increasing appreciation in the furniture industry. This wood, originally a byproduct of mango fruit production, is known for its distinctive grain and sustainable origin. The transformation from fruit tree to valuable furniture wood makes mango wood a prime example of a circular economy.
Origin and Background
Mango wood has a unique origin:
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Geographical origin:
- Southeast Asia (largest production)
- India
- Brazil
- Other tropical regions
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Production process:
- Sourced from retired mango trees (20-25 years)
- Sustainably harvested after fruit-producing period
- Reduces logging in natural forests
Technical Properties
| Property | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bulk density | 550-670 kg/m³ | Medium-heavy wood |
| Durability class | 3-4 | Moderately durable |
| Hardness | Medium | Comparable to oak |
| Stability | Good | Minimal movement after proper drying |
| Bending strength | Average | Suitable for furniture |
Characteristic Features
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Appearance:
- Color variation from light brown to golden brown
- Sometimes dark streaks or flames
- Beautifully grays with outdoor use
- Unique grain pattern per piece
-
Texture:
- Medium to coarse grain
- Irregular grain direction
- Occasional playful knots
- Natural color variations
Applications
| Application Area | Examples | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Furniture | Tables, cabinets, beds | Sustainable and characteristic |
| Interior construction | Wall cladding, shelves | Decorative appearance |
| Accessories | Cutting boards, trays | Moisture resistant |
| Outdoor furniture | Garden sets, planters | Reasonably weather-resistant |
Processing and Treatment
Processing Properties
- Machining: Well machinable with standard tools
- Drying: Careful drying necessary to prevent warping
- Finishing: Easy to sand and finish
- Protection: Treatment recommended for outdoor use
Maintenance and Care
For optimal longevity of mango wood, the following is important:
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Indoor use:
- Regular dusting
- Protect from direct sunlight
- Remove stains immediately
-
Outdoor use:
- Annual treatment with oil or stain
- Protect during winter
- Regular cleaning
Sustainability and Environment
Mango wood offers various sustainable benefits:
- Circular origin: Reuse of retired fruit trees
- Environmentally friendly: No specific tree cutting for wood production
- Local economy: Additional income for mango farmers
- Renewable: Continuous planting for fruit production
Price-Quality Ratio
Mango wood offers various economic advantages:
- Affordable alternative to traditional hardwoods
- Sustainable origin without extra cost
- Favorable purchase price due to byproduct status
- Good lifespan with proper maintenance
Future Perspective
The popularity of mango wood is growing for various reasons:
- Increasing appreciation for sustainable materials
- Growing interest in unique, characteristic wood types
- Rising demand for circular products
- Development of new applications
As a sustainable alternative to traditional woods, mango wood has a promising future in the furniture and interior industry.