Determination of mechanical characteristics and reaction to fire of RNIER (Borassus aethiopum Mart.) of Togo

The “rônier” or Borassus aethiopum Mart is a wood material which is used as an element for construction and public works in Togo. The goal of this study was to determine its mechanical characteristics and its reaction to fire which are the fundamental parameters of works dimensioning. The analyses and tests of B. aethiopum samples enabled to realize that the B. aethiopum possesses mechanical features much superior to those of resinous and leafy wood (1.08 times for the pruning to 2.5 times for the axial drive). The resistance to the axial compression is 3.5 times the transversal one. With a strong content in cellulose, the use of the B. aethiopum should be avoided at temperature exceeding 180°C. For a temperature of 676°C for 2 min, with a humidity of 8.17%, the sample of B. aethiopum lost 78.54% of its weight.   Key words: Togo, Borassus aethiopum, mechanical characteristics, reaction to fire.