Journal of Research in Forestry, Wildlife and Environment 

About: Journal of Research in Forestry, Wildlife and Environment is an academic journal. The journal publishes majorly in the area(s): Population & Germination. It has an ISSN identifier of 2141-1778. Over the lifetime, 404 publications have been published receiving 640 citations.

Assessment of Fibre Characteristics and Suitability of Maize Husk and Stalk for Pulp and Paper Production

Abstract: Maize husk and stalk were assessed for their fibre characteristics and suitability for pulp and paper production. Fifteen (15) fibres were randomly selected and measured from each representative sample. It was observed that fibre length of maize husk was 1.37mm and that of maize stalk was 1.52mm. The fibre diameter (D) was 30.19 μm for each of the samples. The values of cell wall thickness and lumen width (d) for each sample were 8.82 μm and 13.67 μm respectively. Runkel ratio for maize husk and maize stalks was 1.23 each. This implies that they are feasible for pulp and paper production. The felting rate (slenderness ratio) was 45.93 for maize husk and 50.34 for maize stalk. The elasticity coefficient was 45.30% for maize husk and maize stalk and rigidity coefficients for maize husk and maize stalk was 29.21%. T-test showed that fibre length of maize husk and maize stalk were not significantly different. Keywords: Maize, husk, stalk, pulp, and fibre length.

Constraints to use of mobile telephony for agricultural production in Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract: This study identifies the factors affecting the use of mobile telephony by small-scale farmers in Ondo State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study describes the socio-economic and demographic characteristics of the farmers, examines their access to telecommunications services, determines their frequency of using mobile telephony for agricultural activities as well as the factors affecting the use of the technology by the farmers. The study made use of 170 randomly selected farmers across the state. Descriptive statistics, likert scale and multivariate logit model were the analytical tools adopted for the study. The findings revealed that non-membership of agricultural society, inadequate extension services, fluctuating telecommunication services, inadequate access to mobile services and lack of electric power supply are the constraints to the use of mobile telephone services by the farmers. Therefore, the study calls for provision of stable services by mobile telecommunications service providers, regular electric power supply, training of the farmers by extension agents and agricultural development agencies as well as formation of agricultural societies by the farmers.

Environmental pollution in Nigeria: The need for awareness creation for sustainable development

Abstract: The paper set out to examine the issue of environmental pollution and its attendant consequences on the Nigerian society. In doing so, the paper has on the basis of personal observation and secondary sources examined the effects of environmental pollution in Nigeria. The findings show that environmental problems in Nigeria generally are many, diverse in nature, and are caused by man’s interaction with nature (environment) for exploits in a number of ways-both in the cities; where industrial activities predominate, and rural areas; where agriculture thrives. The paper posits that man utilizes air for survival, harnesses land and water resources for domestic, commercial, industrial, agricultural and other purposes. Through these activities; man directly and/or indirectly create problems which are detrimental to his health/survival, well being, natural existence and stability. The paper observes that these problems are a consequence of environmental pollution which also degenerates into environmental degradation and several other hazards such as widespread epidemics, depletion of natural habitats, and thus; impede the socio-economic development of Nigeria as a nation. The paper recommends awareness creation and change in attitudes for effective environmental and resources management strategies as a way forward.

Combustion Properties of Briquettes Produced from Maize Cob of Different Particle Sizes

Abstract: Maize cobs sieved into three different mesh sizes of 2.36mm, 4.75mm, and 6.36mm were densified into briquettes using starch as binder. Combustion related properties namely percentage volatile matter, percentage ash content, percentage fixed carbon and calorific or heating value of the briquettes were determined. Results showed that different mesh sizes produced briquettes of different properties. Densities of the briquette produced ranged from 0.15-0.27g/cm 3 with particle size 2.36mm having a percentage volatile matter of 57.82%, 4.75mm had 59.37% respectively while 6.30mm had the highest volatile matter of 62.90. The higher the particle size the higher the heating values which ranged from 20.93 to 24.97kj/kg. There is significant difference (P<0.05) in the heating values of the briquette produced from the three particle sizes. Assessment of the burning characteristics showed that briquette produced with particle size 6.30mm gave the highest energy value (24.97) and percentage volatile (62.91%) matter with moderate ash content. Keywords: Briquette, maize cob, combustion properties, mesh sizes, binding agent

Anatomical and chemical properties of wood and their practical implications in pulp and paper production: a review

Abstract: Wood is a highly variable and complex material that has different chemical, physical and anatomical properties that influence its commercial value. This review therefore, explains the wide variability between anatomical and chemical properties of wood and their practical implication in pulp and paper production. In papermaking, fibres are the cell elements that impart strength to the paper sheet. The function of the vessel element is to conduct water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the higher parts of the plant. Generally, lingnocellulose materials from wood and non-wood plant consist of lignin, hemicelluloses, extractive and some inorganic matter. Information on the chemical composition is important in deciding the techno-commercial suitability, pulping method and paper strength of a particular wood material. Keywoods: Wood, Anatomcal, Chemical, Pulp, Paper