Potential of rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis) for structural use after the period of latex extraction: a case study in Brazil

Author(s)

Eufrade Junior, Humberto de Jesus ^[1] ; Ohto, Jessica Monari ^[1] ; da Silva, Lucas Luis ^[1] ; Lara Palma, Hernando Alfonso ^[2] ; Ballarin, Adriano Wagner ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Sao Paulo State Univ, UNESP, Coll Agr Sci, Dept Rural Engn, BR-18610307 Botucatu, SP - Brazil

^[2] Sao Paulo State Univ, UNESP, Coll Agr Sci, Dept Forest Sci, BR-18610307 Botucatu, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: JOURNAL OF WOOD SCIENCE; v. 61, n. 4, p. 384-390, AUG 2015.
• Web of Science Citations: 3

Abstract

In Brazil, after the cycle of latex extraction, rubber plantations are reformulated and the wood of these plantings are traditionally used as a cheap source for energy purposes. Rubberwood has other uses based on the consolidated experience in Asian countries. The aim of this article was to evaluate the technological potential of the wood of two main commercial clones of Hevea brasiliensis in Brazil, RRIM600 and GT1, after the period of latex extraction. To accomplish this objective, some physical and mechanical properties of wood were analyzed. The clones had a basic density greater than 0.540 g cm(-3), low volumetric shrinkage (<10 %), and medium to high strength in compression parallel to grain (>40 MPa). According to the results obtained, rubberwood has applications in small and secondary structures, lightweight construction, and furniture industry and it can be an alternative in the Brazilian market to reduce the timber demand from native forest species. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 10/06610-7 - Technological potential of sawn wood from RRIM600 clone of rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis (Wild. ex. a. Juss.) Mull. Arg.)
• Grantee: Humberto de Jesus Eufrade Junior
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation