Technological characterization of Calophyllum brasiliense wood from a commercial planting in the State of Tocantins
Abstract
Abstract This study evaluated the technological properties of Calophyllum brasiliense (guanandi) wood from a commercial plantation in Dueré, Tocantins. Anatomical, chemical, optical, physical, and mechanical properties were determined for eight-year-old trees. Anatomical analysis showed diffuse-porous wood with predominantly solitary vessels, axial parenchyma in bands, and heterocellular rays chiefly uniseriate. Along the radial axis, significant differences were observed between regions near the pith and bark in cell-wall thickness (4.2–4.9 µm), vessel element length (380–426 µm), and vessel (pore) diameter (130–250 µm). The contents of holocellulose (62 %), Klason lignin (29 %), total extractives (8 %), and ash (0.8 %) fall within the expected range for tropical species. Colorimetry indicated higher chroma near the pith and greater lightness near the bark, with classification into clusters 04, 19, and 22. Basic density was 585 kg/m3, while apparent density at 12 % moisture content was significantly higher near the pith (710 vs 685 kg/m3); volumetric shrinkage and swelling were 12.7 % and 14.7 %. Anisotropy coefficients distinguished juvenile from mature wood. Mechanical tests yielded: modulus of elasticity (MOE) 8.6 GPa; modulus of rupture (MOR) 80 MPa; compression parallel to grain 41 MPa; shear 13 MPa. C. brasiliense wood showed good strength but was classified as strength class D20 under the Brazilian standard (ABNT NBR 7190) due to relatively low MOE. Its values are comparable to commercially used species, indicating potential for secondary structural applications across industrial uses.