Technical Note: Properties of Wood from Frost-Tolerant Eucalyptus Planted in Brazil

Abstract

The study of the technological characteristics of wood is of great importance as it provides information that may help to direct its best use. It is also useful in forest breeding programs and in the choice of which species to plant. Traditionally, the most planted tree in Brazil is the hybrid  Eucalyptus grandis x Eucalyptus urophylla . The planting of  Eucalyptus  in Brazilian cold regions has intensified in recent years, and this and other species of the genus have also been used for this. Wood basic density, fiber dimensions, chemical composition, and higher heating value (HHV) of  Eucalyptus benthamii , Eucalyptus dunnii , and  Eucalyptus saligna , all species with a tolerance to frost, were analyzed. Basic densities, all greater than 460 kg/m 3 , were not significantly different among species.  E. dunnii  had the longest fiber ().98 mm), the highest holocellulose content, and the lowest lignin content, showing its potential for pulping.  E. Benthamii  and  E. Saligna together have higher lignin content with greater HHV, and so are more indicated for energy. Total extractive and ash content were high, but there were no significant differences among the species.