Ambara™, Thermally Modified Ayous / Obeche, Species Information

Detailed scientific and mechanical properties for Ambara™ Thermally Modified Wood

Ambara

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.

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Nova Ambara™ / Thermally Modified Ayous Wood Properties

Janka Hardness: 285 lbf
Modulus of Rupture (MOR): 8,820 psi
Modulus of Elasticity (MOE): 970 ×1000 psi
Density: 320 kg/m³
Tangential Shrinkage: 2%
Radial Shrinkage: 2%
Botanical Family: Malvaceae
Tree: Tall and relatively clear with logs up to 5 feet in diameter.
Distribution: Abundant in West Africa, and available with OLB and FSC certification from certified sustaible forestry.
Other Names: Triplochiton scleroxylon, Obeche, West African Cedar, Abachi, Wawa, Sambawawa, Ambara™

Nova Ambara™ / Thermally Modified Ayous Characteristics

Color

Light yellow color, sapwood not clearly demarcated. The wood becomes a caramel brown when thermally modified.

Texture

Medium texture

Grain

Straight or interlocked

Luster

Medium

Durability

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

Rapid with low risk of checking and distortion. No known of collapse or case hardening.

Workability

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.

Photosensitivity

Yes

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.