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Found in the tropical forests of equatorial
Africa,
Pterocarpus soyaxii
trees can grow to more than 100 feet tall, with trunk diameters
reaching more than three feet. Because the trees are large, Padauk wood
is available in a wide variety of sizes (although it is exported
only occasionally, and in small volumes).
Padauk, which is sometimes spelled Paduak, is dense, durable, and stable,
with an average specific gravity of about 0.72. It machines and glues easily,
and finishes well. Note: When applying a finish,
water-based finishes are recommended, as
oil-based (penetrative) finishes will inevitably have a darkening
effect on the wood.
Padauk generates a lot of dust when sanded.
The dust tends to cling to clothing and skin (giving one a John
Boehner-like glow!), which can sometimes
trigger allergic skin reactions. As with any potentially problematic
dust, it is strongly recommended to shower immediately after stopping
work. The longer the dust
is in contact with the skin, the greater the chances for an allergic
reaction.
Like many other vibrantly colored woods, Padauk tends to darken
with time and exposure to sunlight.
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A
Pterocarpus soyaxii
tree
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PADAUK TIDBITS
African Padauk goes by various native
names, including
Mbel, Mukula, N'gula, Tacula,
and Kisese, among others.
The leaves of
Pterocarpus soyaxii trees are edible
and, in fact, contain large amounts of vitamin C. |
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