Relação entre a deformação residual longitudinal com crescimento e propriedades da madeira de espécies de Eucalyptus

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the relationship of longitudinal residual strain due to growth stresses with tree growth variables and the physical and mechanical properties of wood. The species studied were E. dunnii and E. grandis, both with 40, 52 and 64 months of age and E. saligna with ages 28, 40, 52 months of age for solid wood production. The growth stress levels were measured indirectly through the CIRAD-Forêt method. The physical and mechanical properties of wood were obtained in accordance with the standards of COPANT (1972a). Correlations among longitudinal residual strain with tree growth variables and physical and mechanical properties showed a high dispersion; wood at 52 months of age exhibited a more obvious correlation among investigated variables. Thus, forest breeding programs, associated with increments of new silvicultural practices should be directed to the production of wood with desirable characteristics for obtaining the solid wood with low propensity for growth stress.