Wood, is a hygroscopic substance. It has the ability to
adsorb and desorb moisture. When wood is exposed to atmospheric
condition its moisture content adjusts itself until it is in
equilibrium with the moisture content of the surrounding
atmospheric humidity. The equilibrium moisture content of wood
is dependant on the atmospheric temperature and relative humidity
and consequently a change in temperature and relative humidity
will bring about a change in the moisture content of wood. This
fluctuation of moisture content is generally accompanied by a
corresponding change in the dimension of the wood. The situation
becomes complicated by the fact that the dimensional change is
not same for all the species. Some timbers are comparatively
stable in respect of shrinkage and swelling while others are more
susceptible to such changes causing trouble during wood in service,
particularly in joinery work, such as, drawers, doors and windows,
etc. Thus knowledge on the seasonal variation of moisture content
of different species of wood and their concomitant dimensional
changes is of considerable practical importance in determining
their suitability for good quality furniture and cabinet manufacture.
A study was, therefore, undertaken to evaluate the relative
dimensional stability properties of some of the indigenous wood
species of Bangladesh where temperature and relative humidity
conditions of the atmosphere between the winter and monsoon
months vary widely.