Fiber characteristics of white poplar (Populus alba L.) juvenile wood along the Drava River

Abstract

Anatomical properties of white poplar (Populus alba L.) wood have not been sufficiently investigated and quantified, whereas data on fiber characteristics will certainly define its potential as a raw material. Fiber length, double cell wall thickness and fiber lumen diameter of white poplar juvenile wood from two sites along the Drava River in Croatia were measured. Variations in fiber characteristics in radial direction (from pith to bark), within and between white poplar populations from two sites were investigated. Results indicate that fiber Rlength and double cell wall thickness varied significantly from pith to bark, within and between sites. Variation in fiber lumen diameter was non-significant only between sites. The variation in radial pattern was characterized by increase in fiber length with cambial age. Double cell wall thickness and fiber lumen diameter varied in non-consistent radial pattern. In conclusion, variation significance demonstrates nonhomogeneous wood fiber characteristics at both sites.