Ambara™, Thermally Modified Ayous / Obeche, Species Information

Detailed scientific and mechanical properties for Ambara™ Thermally Modified Wood

Ambara

Description: Ambara™, our thermally modified Ayous has an even caramel color due to the thermal modification process. Naturally durable and incredibly stable, thermally modified Ayous is a fantastic choice for siding, rainscreen, trim boards, pergolas and more.
More Info: Nova Ambara™, aka Thermally Modified Ayous, resembles a clear grade Aye & Btr Western Red Cedar in appearance. Ayous has an even cream color in its natural form but Nova's unique thermal modification process changes this to a caramel brown or tan color that is very appealing and lends itself well for a clear or walnut color stain. The thermal modification creates a grade that is extremely stable and durable - this is what makes Ambara the best choice in thermally modified wood. Ambara™ compares favorably with Western Red Cedar for use as trim boards, siding, cladding, pergolas and more. Ambara™ is a softer, light weight species making it ideal for installation on walls and ceilings. It can be nailed or screwed, and clips can be applied to create a complete hidden fastening look.
Other Names: Triplochiton scleroxylon, Obeche, West African Cedar, Abachi, Wawa, Sambawawa, Ambara™
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Janka Hardness: 285 pounds
Strength (MOR): 8,820 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 970 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 320
Color: Light yellow color, sapwood not clearly demarcated. The wood becomes a caramel brown when thermally modified.
Photosensitivity: Yes
Tangential Shrinkage: 2.0%
Radial Shrinkage: 2.0%
Family: Malvaceae
Tree Characteristics: Tall and relatively clear with logs up to 5 feet in diameter.
Geographic Area: Abundant in West Africa, and available with OLB and FSC certification from certified sustaible forestry.
Texture: Medium texture
Grain: Straight or interlocked
Luster: Medium
Durability Rating: Naturally a Class 5 durability, indoor use only. When Thermally modified the wood changes to a class 1/2 durability for exterior use depending on the method of thermal modification used. Ambara™ is similar in durability to clear all heart Western Red Cedar after thermal modification.
Drying Characteristics: Rapid with low risk of checking and distortion. No known of collapse or case hardening.
Working Characteristics: Ordinary mild steel recommmended. Easy to work and install. Peeling and slicing of non thermally modified Ayous are not known to have any issues.
Applications: Because Ambara™ is thermally modified, it can be used for both exterior and interior uses. Typical applications include trim boards, ceilings, soffits, and siding. Non-modified Ayous should never be used outdoors.
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