Physical Properties of Wood from Steamed Eucalyptus grandis Logs

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of log steaming on the physical properties of Eucalyptus grandis Hill ex Maiden wood. Logs with diameters between 20 and 25 cm and length of 2.9 m were studied. Half the logs were maintained in their original condition, and the other half were steamed at 90 °C for 20 hours. Later, the logs were sawn into flat boards, and samples were removed to determine the physical properties of the wood. The results showed that log steaming caused a significant decreases of: (1) 6.38% and 7.98% in the respective basic and oven dried density; and (2) 7.20%, 7.80%, 5.13%, and 8.56% in the volumetric, tangential, radial, and axial linear swelling of wood.