Natural durability of fast growth plantation Eucalyptus grandis Hill, ex Maiden

IRG/WP 08-10660

S Böthig, A Sánchez, J Doldán

One of the fast growing species cultivated in Uruguay of mayor economical importance is Eucalyptus grandis. Physical and mechanical properties of juvenile and mature wood from different regions have been deeply studied. However, since no scientific data of natural durability of this specie has been reported, natural durability of E. grandis from two sites (Rivera and Rio Negro) was evaluated. Two sixteen years old plantations, originated from same seed, were sampled. Natural durability of outer and inner heartwood was studied following EN 350-1 methods. Populus deltoides x euroamericana cv I-214, was tested as reference specie. EN 113 laboratory tests for fungal decay (Gloeophyllum trabeum, Trametes versicolor and Serpula lacrymans) and EN 118 for termites resistance (Reticulitermes spp.) were performed. Field stakes, Double layer and Fungal cellar tests were established. They are still on course and partial results were reported in this paper. Upon basic density radial profiles, it was found that outer heartwood was not mature wood, but can be assumed as transition wood. In general, Eucalyptus grandis heartwood showed higher durability than Populus hybrid. E. grandis appeared moderately o seriously attacked by Reticulitermes spp.. E. grandis juvenile wood can be classified according EN 350-1, as “Moderately durable” against the brown rotter G. trabeum, whereas transition wood can be described as “Durable”. Transition wood has shown higher resistance to G. trabeum, slightly less susceptibility to termites and a better condition in the field (17 months exposure) than juvenile wood. Site of plantation does not seem to affect termites susceptibility of E. grandis cultivated in the Northern or Western region of Uruguay. Field performance seems to be slightly better for site II than site I. However, it is too soon to draw valid conclusions from double layer o field stakes test. Natural durability might be related to Density. Deeper studies should be done to draw any certain conclusion


Keywords: Eucalyptus grandis, natural durability, juvenile wood, wood density, termites, Gloeophyllum trabeum, Trametes versicolor

Conference: 08-05-25/29, Istanbul, Turkey


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