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

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...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of wood science 2015-08, Vol.61 (4), p.384-390
Main Authors: de Jesus Eufrade Junior, Humberto, Ohto, Jéssica Monari, da Silva, Lucas Luís, Lara Palma, Hernando Alfonso, Ballarin, Adriano Wagner
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Biomedical and Life Sciences
case studies
Characterization and Evaluation of Materials
clones
Compressive strength
energy
forests
Furniture
furniture industry
Hevea brasiliensis
Indigenous species
Latex
Life Sciences
markets
Materials Science
Mechanical properties
Original Article
Physical properties
Plant extracts
Plantations
Rubber
Rubberwood
Shrinkage
Timber (structural)
Wood
wood mechanical properties
Wood Science & Technology
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Summary: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 (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.
ISSN:1435-0211
1611-4663
DOI:10.1007/s10086-015-1478-7