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Anatomical Structure and Physical Properties of Eucalyptus pellita F. Muell Wood

ABSTRACT

The objectives of this study were to determine the physical properties variation of Eucalyptus pellita F. Muell wood; to determine the variation dimension of anatomical features through digital image analysis and acquisition method using CELLF software (Olympus®); and to determine the correlations between the studied variables. Nondestructive samples (increment core of 20 mm diameter) were obtained from 15-year-old trees and then divided in three positions: heartwood, transition heartwood/sapwood and sapwood. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences between positions for dependent variables, probably due to the predominance of juvenile wood. Basic density was more correlated to fiber dimensions (length, width and wall thickness) than to other anatomical features. Volumetric shrinkage had a tendency to decrease as ray width and vessel length increased, while it was not affected by other anatomical features.

Keywords:
volumetric shrinkage; basic density; juvenile wood.

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