Comparison of image analysis and conventional methods for cellular tissue proportion measurement of wood

Wood cellular tissue proportion was measured using computer image processing technique. Digital transverse microstructure images were photographed through the system composed of microscope and video camera. The obtained images were then analyzed with an image analysis software through the steps of threshold, binary transform, grains filter, grains expanding and erosion, lacunae calking, and morphological features calculation. As a result, we could figure out the vessel proportion, fiber proportion and xylem ray proportion of broad-leaved tree, as well as the resin canal proportion, tracheid proportion and ray proportion of coniferous tree. Twenty-five species of coniferous and broad-leaved trees were tested using both image analysis and conventional methods. The results showed that significant positive correlations exist among the tested species. The approach of computer image analysis had more advantages of rapidity, accuracy and agility than the conventional methods.