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SummaryThe current distribution and population structure of many species were, to a large extent, shaped by cycles of isolation in glacial refugia and subsequent population expansions. Isolation in, and post-glacial expansion through heterogeneous environments led to either neutral or adaptive divergence. Norway spruce is no exception, and its current distribution is the consequence of a constant interplay between evolutionary and demographic processes. We investigated population differentiation and adaptation of Norway spruce for juvenile growth, diameter of the stem, wood density and tracheid traits at breast height. Data from 4,461 phenotyped and genotyped Norway spruce from 396 half-sib families in two progeny tests were used to test for divergent selection in the framework of QST vs FST. We show that the macroscopic resultant trait (stem diameter), unlike its microscopic components (tracheid dimensions) and juvenile growth, was under divergent selection that predated the Last Glacial Maximum. Altogether, the current variation in these phenotypic traits in Norway spruce is better explained by local adaptation to ancestral environments than to current ones, where populations were partly pre-adapted, mainly through growth-related traits.

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) allows for the rapid estimation of a wide range of wood properties. Typically, NIRS studies on wood have utilized benchtop spectrometers, but efforts to utilize NIR hyperspectral imaging to examine wood and wood products have increased. Compared to benchtop NIR systems, hyperspectral imaging has several advantages (speed, visualization of spatial variability), but the data typically have a lower signal-to-noise ratio as well as fewer wavelengths saved; thus, hyperspectral imaging systems have a larger spectral sampling interval (SSI). Furthermore, the SSI and wavelength range varies considerably among different HSI cameras. NIR-HSI systems based on indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) detectors have a wavelength range typically from 900 to 1700 nm, while short-wave infrared hyperspectral imaging (SWIR-HSI) systems based on mercury cadmium telluride (MCT) detectors have the ‘full’ NIR wavelength range from 1000 to 2500 nm. These factors may influence the performance of wood property calibrations. We compared one NIR-HSI (900–1700 nm) and three SWIR-HSI (1000–2500 nm) commercially available cameras with an NIRS benchtop spectrometer (1100–2500 nm). The performance of specific gravity (SG) and stiffness (MOE) calibration models was compared with one-hundred Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) samples. The limited wavelength range of an NIR-HSI camera provided the best models for MOE, whereas the NIR-HSI and two SWIR-HSI cameras provided similar SG results. SWIR-HSI models heavily favored wavelengths greater than 1900 nm.

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) allows for the rapid estimation of a wide range of wood properties. Typically, NIRS studies on wood have utilized benchtop spectrometers, but efforts to utilize NIR hyperspectral imaging to examine wood and wood products have increased. Compared to benchtop NIR systems, hyperspectral imaging has several advantages (speed, visualization of spatial variability), but the data typically have a lower signal-to-noise ratio as well as fewer wavelengths saved; thus, hyperspectral imaging systems have a larger spectral sampling interval (SSI). Furthermore, the SSI and wavelength range varies considerably among different HSI cameras. NIR-HSI systems based on indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) detectors have a wavelength range typically from 900 to 1700 nm, while short-wave infrared hyperspectral imaging (SWIR-HSI) systems based on mercury cadmium telluride (MCT) detectors have the ‘full’ NIR wavelength range from 1000 to 2500 nm. These factors may influence the performance of wood property calibrations. We compared one NIR-HSI (900–1700 nm) and three SWIR-HSI (1000–2500 nm) commercially available cameras with an NIRS benchtop spectrometer (1100–2500 nm). The performance of specific gravity (SG) and stiffness (MOE) calibration models was compared with one-hundred Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) samples. The limited wavelength range of an NIR-HSI camera provided the best models for MOE, whereas the NIR-HSI and two SWIR-HSI cameras provided similar SG results. SWIR-HSI models heavily favored wavelengths greater than 1900 nm.

Chemical composition is one of the key characteristics that determines wood quality and in turn its suitability for different end products and applications. The inclusion of chemical compositional traits in forest tree improvement requires high‐throughput techniques capable of rapid, non‐destructive and cost‐efficient assessment of large‐scale breeding experiments. We tested whether Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, coupled with partial least squares regression, could serve as an alternative to traditional wet chemistry protocols for the determination of the chemical composition of juvenile wood in Scots pine for tree improvement purposes. FTIR spectra were acquired for 1,245 trees selected in two Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) full‐sib progeny tests located in northern Sweden. Predictive models were developed using 70 reference samples with known chemical composition (the proportion of lignin, carbohydrates [cellulose, hemicelluloses and their structural monosaccharides glucose, mannose, xylose, galactose, and arabinose] and extractives). Individual‐tree narrow‐sense heritabilities and additive genetic correlations were estimated for all chemical traits as well as for growth (height and stem diameter) and wood quality traits (density and stiffness). Genetic control of the chemical traits was mostly moderate. Of the major chemical components, highest heritabilities were observed for hemicelluloses (0.43–0.47), intermediate for lignin and extractives (0.30–0.39), and lowest for cellulose (0.20–0.25). Additive genetic correlations among chemical traits were, except for extractives, positive while those between chemical and wood quality traits were negative. In both groups (chemical and wood quality traits), correlations with extractives exhibited opposite signs. Correlations of chemical traits with growth traits were near zero. The best strategy for genetic improvement of Scots pine juvenile wood for bioenergy production is to decrease and stabilize the content of extractives among trees and then focus on increasing the cellulose:lignin ratio.

This experiment was conducted in the pine woods of central Europe at a research area established in 1951. The experimental area of 1.35 ha was set up in a 14-year-old pine tree stand, which was divided into lots, and the pruning procedure took place in different variants. Some lots constituted control lots without pruned trees. The trees were pruned in four variants, reducing the living tree crown by 1/4, 1/3, 1/2, and 2/3 of its length. The study’s main aim was to determine the influence of pruning forest trees on the tree tissue. Moreover, the study attempted to answer whether pruning was a significant procedure for wood valorisation, and if yes, then which variant was the optimal one for Scots pine growing on the European plain. The results indicated a significant impact of pruning young pine tree stands on the properties of wood tissue, which differed regarding the adopted pruning variant. Significant differences in the width of annual rings, the size of the particular areas of the annual rings (latewood or earlywood), and the wood density depending on the pruning variant were observed. Furthermore, the results indicated that pruning induced numerous processes, which optimised the physiological and mechanical functions of the tree trunks. The outcome of this optimisation was, among others, the diversification of the vascular and strengthening area of the annual ring as well as the wood density, which was a reaction to reducing a part of the assimilation apparatus. From the technical wood value viewpoint, the optimal pruning variant for pine was between 1/3 to 1/2 of the living crown.

In this study, we used both nondestructive and destructive methods for assessing solid wood properties in six Vietnamese grown Eucalyptus clones at 6 years after planting. We measured stress wave velocity in standing sample trees (SWVT), logs (SWVL), and small clear specimens (SWVS) obtained from the trees and logs, and to measure static properties, we used MOE—modulus of elasticity and MOR—modulus of rupture. The highest average MOE and MOR were detected in clones 3 and 5, suggesting that these clones might be more appropriate for breeding programs focused on improving wood quality of Eucalyptus grown in Vietnam. Mean MOE and MOR of the lumber had significant (p < 0.001) relationships with SWVT (r = 0.61 and 0.53, respectively) and SWVL (r = 0.76 and 0.71, respectively). Stress wave velocity measurements of both standing trees and logs can be useful for further segregating Vietnam’s Eucalyptus timber resource based on MOE and MOR. For the small clear specimens, the best prediction of stiffness (dynamic modulus of elasticity (MOEd)) was obtained when both SWVS and air-dry density (AD) were used. The coefficient of correlation between MOE and MOEd was 0.93.

The forest industry typically uses visual appearance to evaluate the wood quality when salvaging dead standing trees. We investigated whether the visual appearance of white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) defoliated by the spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana (Clem.)) accurately reflects wood quality measured using nondestructive techniques. Longitudinal and transverse acoustic velocities were measured on white spruce, representing three condition categories assessed visually, ranging from live trees to dead standing trees with signs of decay. Generalized linear models were used to determine whether there were significant differences in longitudinal and transverse acoustic velocities among the visual categories. Longitudinal velocities significantly differed between the live and poorest visual categories. Transverse velocities did not differ by visual category. We found that tree appearance provides coarse but useful insight into intrinsic wood quality. We recommend that forest managers use acoustic, non-destructive technologies on marginal trees to measure the wood quality of salvaged trees to ensure the wood is utilized for the highest and best use thereby optimizing possible values.

The relationships between several crown and tree properties and timber quality were examined on three softwood species: Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco), Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) H. Karst) and Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carr). Crown and stem characteristics were collected on 487 standing trees, and their acoustic velocity measured using a stress-wave device. Of the trees measured, 60 were chosen for further testing, stratified by crown social class and cut into structural sized boards (N =1342). Each board was assessed with regard to knots using a grading X-ray machine, after which all boards were destructively tested in four-point bending and their mechanical properties (elastic modulus, bending strength and density) evaluated. To exclude the effect of branchiness across the crown social classes, mechanical properties were also examined on small clear samples cut from the undamaged section of the tested boards, a total of 1303 specimens were tested destructively in bending. Multi-level models based on Bayesian data analysis were used to evaluate the relationships between recorded characteristics, acoustic velocities and mechanical properties. Considerable differences in acoustic velocities were found between crown social classes, with suppressed trees having the highest velocities. This trend was also confirmed in mechanical properties of structural-sized boards and small clear specimens, suggesting that branchiness is not the primary cause of differences. Results indicate that slenderness affects both tree stiffness and the properties of sawn timber differently across the crown social classes. The relationship is negative in suppressed trees (increasing slenderness leads to a decrease in velocity or mechanical properties) and positive in dominant and co-dominant trees. The effect of crown projection area on either tree acoustic velocity or mechanical properties differs between social classes. In general, it was found to be positive, therefore an increase in crown projection area leads to an increase in either tree acoustic velocity or wood properties of timber. This trend is more evident in sawn timber than in acoustic velocities. The effects appear to be species dependant. No evidence was found of the effect of crown ratio, crown eccentricity or crown roundness on either the examined wood properties or acoustic velocities. Results confirm that there is a link between crown/stem development and timber quality. They indicate that in order to increase the overall quality of timber produced, the proportions of crown social classes in final stand composition should be adjusted with thinning. The first author would like to gratefully acknowledge the support from a Teagasc Walsh Fellowship in the conduct of this work. The authors would like to thank Coillte and the Irish Forestry Unit Trust for enabling access to the forests and providing the testing material. The use of GoldenEye-702 machine was kindly provided by the Murray Timber Group while Martin Bacher from MiCROTEC helped with the scanning of the boards. peer-reviewed 2020-12-28

Mature age Pinus radiata D. Don trees were sampled across nine sites in northern New South Wales, Australia, that were expected, based on site quality and inventory metrics, to exhibit significant variation in productivity and wood quality. Twenty trees per site were harvested and 13 mm diameter, pith-to-bark increment cores were extracted from three trees per site from eight of the nine sites for SilviScan analysis. Outerwood increment cores were collected from all trees for basic density measurement. The same trees were also sampled using an IML PD400 (Resi) instrument. Radial mean properties of wood basic density derived from Resi traces were found to correlate strongly with the mean density data derived from SilviScan analyses and from increment cores. The Resi-derived basic density of 10 mm radial segments was strongly correlated with SilviScan measures of basic density averaged at similar intervals.

Tree morphological characteristics, particularly straightness and lean, significantly influence the value of the commercial products that can be obtained. Despite this, they are not usually evaluated in timber field inventories because traditional techniques are labor-intensive and largely subjective, hence the use of these parameters is limited to research and genetic breeding programs. Here, a non-destructive, fully automated methodology is presented that estimates the parameters for describing straightness and lean using terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) data. It is based on splitting stems into evenly spaced sections and estimating their centers, which are then used to automatically calculate the maximum sagitta, sinuosity, and lean of each tree. The methodology was applied in a breeding trial plot of Pinus pinaster, and the results obtained were compared with field measurements of straightness and lean based on visual classification. The methodology is robust to errors in the estimation of section centers, the basis for calculating shape parameters. Besides, its accuracy compares favorably with traditional field techniques, which often involve problems of misclassification. The new methodology is easy to use, less expensive, and overcomes the drawbacks of traditional field techniques for obtaining straightness and lean measurements. It can be modified to apply to any species and stand typology.

The impregnation of low-molecular-weight monomers prior to polymerize them inside the wood may be an efficient way to improve some important wood properties. This work aimed to determine some technological properties of wood-based composites (WPC) produced by in situ polymerization, using a pine wood (Pinus elliottii Engelm.) impregnated with methyl methacrylate (MMA). For that, samples taken from both juvenile (JV) and mature (MT) pine woods were treated with MMA. Physical, mechanical, chemical, thermal and morphological features were evaluated. MMA-treated woods from both juvenile and mature woods presented superior physical, mechanical (expect brittleness) and thermal properties when compared to pristine ones. The infrared spectra and morphological analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed the presence of the monomer inside the pine wood. The juvenile wood presented higher treatability than the mature wood, due to its higher content of intra- and inter-cellular spaces. Higher Education—CAPES (Financing Code 001) and National Council for Scientific and Technological Development—CNPq (Financing Code 301758/2019-0).

State-of-the-art technology available at sawmills enables measurements of whorl numbers and the maximum branch diameter for individual logs, but such information is currently unavailable at the wood procurement planning phase. The first step toward more detailed evaluation of standing timber is to introduce a method that produces similar wood quality indicators in standing forests as those currently used in sawmills. Our aim was to develop a quantitative method to detect and model branches from terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) point clouds data of trees in a forest environment. The test data were obtained from 158 Scots pines (Pinus sylvestris L.) in six mature forest stands. The method was evaluated for the accuracy of the following branch parameters: Number of whorls per tree and for every whorl, the maximum branch diameter and the branch insertion angle associated with it. The analysis concentrated on log-sections (stem diameter > 15 cm) where the branches most affect wood's value added. The quantitative whorl detection method had an accuracy of 69.9% and a 1.9% false positive rate. The estimates of the maximum branch diameters and the corresponding insertion angles for each whorl were underestimated by 0.34 cm (11.1%) and 0.67 degrees (1.0%), with a root-mean-squared error of 1.42 cm (46.0%) and 17.2 degrees (26.3%), respectively. Distance from the scanner, occlusion, and wind were the main external factors that affect the method's functionality. Thus, the completeness and point density of the data should be addressed when applying TLS point cloud based tree models to assess branch parameters.

Wood production is a metabolic process requiring high amount of soluble carbohydrates as source of carbon skeletons, energy, or signalling molecules. Nevertheless, the role of soluble sugars and starch has been rarely investigated in the growth to dormancy transition phase. The aim of this work was to investigate the carbohydrate concentrations and the transcription level of some candidate genes involved in cellulose and starch metabolisms in competitive carbon sinks such as phloem, maturing xylem, and xylem during the active growth to dormancy transition phase in Picea abies (L.) Karst. Stems were sampled every two weeks between July and October from potted eight-year-old Norway spruce plants. Results highlight that the cellulose biosynthesis regulated the pattern of carbohydrate changes in the phloem and maturing xylem during the transition to dormancy. In particular, the cessation of CesA (?-cellulose synthase) mRNA accumulation in maturing xylem determined a shift in the carbohydrate partitioning from the utilization sinks to the storage compartment. The content of carbohydrates was modulated in the maturing xylem by cellulose metabolism during the xylogenesis and by starch metabolism during the cambium dormancy. On the contrary, the carbon competition between utilization and storage sinks seemed to be less connected within the phloem. Since the amount of soluble carbohydrates within the maturing xylem and phloem has never been limited during the growth to dormancy transition phase, the cessation of the CesA transcription was probably determined by environmental conditions rather than by carbon limitation or sink competition.

This study aimed to evaluate the environmental effect on the wood chemical composition of Eucalyptus grandis x Eucalyptus urophylla clones for pulp production. Seven clones of 6.5 years old were evaluated. The clones were planted in two growing sites, Nova Almeida - Espírito Santo and Posto da Mata - Bahia, established in 3 x 3 m spacing. Five trees were selected from each clone and discs were removed from five different positions equidistant from the trunk and at diameter at breast height (DBH) height. Two wedge from opposite sides were obtained from the discs. A chemical analysis was performed with a sample composed of all the wedges of each tree in order to determine extractive contents, lignin, holocellulose, carbohydrates and the ratio among syringyl (S) and guaiacyl (G) lignin substructures (S/G) per tree. The S/G ratio was considered to be the most stable characteristic to environmental change, followed by the holloceluloose content, which was considered the second least characteristic influenced by the growth site. Most of the studied clones presented a statistical difference between the growing site for the wood extractive content, in contrast to the total carbohydrates content that was highlighted by presenting values which were little influenced by the genetic material and the growth site.

Knot properties have a profound influence on the suitability of wood for many wood products leading to significant value differences between different quality grades. It would therefore be rather advantageous to maximise the volume of good quality timber attained from the logs. The objective of this study was to assess how well A-quality lumber of Scots pine derived from log tomography features can be predicted with characteristics measured prior to or concurrently with the logging operation. The study is based on field experiments and X-ray scanning of 204 stems from southern Finland in 2014. We employed mixed logistic regression techniques to model the relationship between the main stem characteristics and probability of A-quality lumber. From the tree characteristics that can be measured or detected from standing trees, the height from the ground level to the lowest dead branch was found to be the best predictor of A-quality lumber. From the characteristics that could, at least in theory, be detected and measured at the moment of harvest, early growth rate and size of tree were found to be the best combination for predicting the probability of A-class quality.

Worldwide, Tectona grandis (teak) is recognized for its productivity and the quality of its wood. The Brazilian market is already seen as a great potential for consumption and production of teak wood. Therefore, the objective of this work was to characterize the teak wood grown in Brazil through a bibliographic survey of the results already available. In general, it was found that the teak wood planted in Brazil has a certain variability in its technological properties, and these variations are due to the origin, genetic material, age, planting location and the cycle used in the management of the forest. In a way, we still do not have much research on the quality of teak wood, and it would be important to implement research programs and experiments that consider the different genetic materials, growing environments, planting spacing, silvicultural tracts and ages of cutting, to allow greater knowledge about the growth and the factors that can influence the quality of the wood to be produced. A nivel mundial, Tectona grandis (teca) es reconocida por su productividad y la calidad de su madera. El mercado brasileño ya se ve como un gran potencial para el consumo y producción de madera de teca. Por tanto, el objetivo de este trabajo fue caracterizar la madera de teca cultivada en Brasil a través de un relevamiento bibliográfico de los resultados ya disponibles. En general, se encontró que la madera de teca plantada en Brasil tiene cierta variabilidad en sus propiedades tecnológicas, y estas variaciones se deben al origen, material genético, edad, lugar de plantación y ciclo utilizado en el manejo forestal. De alguna manera, todavía no tenemos mucha investigación sobre la calidad de la madera de teca, y sería importante implementar programas de investigación y experimentación que consideren los diferentes materiales genéticos, ambientes de cultivo, espaciamientos de plantación, tratamientos silvícolas y edades de corte, para Permitir un mayor conocimiento sobre el crecimiento y los factores que pueden influir en la calidad de la madera a producir. Mundialmente, Tectona grandis (teca) é reconhecida pela sua produtividade e qualidade de sua madeira. O mercado brasileiro já é visto como um grande potencial de consumo e de produção de madeira de teca. Assim sendo, o objetivo desse trabalho foi caracterizar a madeira de teca cultivada no Brasil através de um levantamento bibliográfico dos resultados já disponibilizados. De maneira geral constatou-se que a madeira de teca plantada no Brasil apresenta uma certa variabilidade nas suas propriedades tecnológicas, sendo que essas variações são decorrentes da procedência, material genético, idade, local de plantio e o ciclo utilizado, no manejo da floresta. De certa forma, ainda não temos muitas pesquisas sobre a qualidade da madeira da teca, sendo que seria importante a implementação de programas de pesquisas e de experimentos que considerem os diferentes materiais genéticos, ambientes de crescimento, espaçamentos de plantio, tratos silviculturais e idades de corte, para permitir maior conhecimento sobre o crescimento e os fatores que podem influenciar na qualidade da madeira a ser produzida.

Advancing climate change is affecting the health and vitality of forests in many parts of the world. Europe is currently facing spruce bark beetle outbreaks, which are most often caused by wind disturbances, hot summers, or lack of rainfall and are having a massive economic impact on the forestry sector. The aim of this research article was to summarize current scientific knowledge about the structure and physical and mechanical properties of wood from bark beetle-attacked trees. Spruce stands are attacked by a number of beetles, of which Ips typographus is the most common and widespread in Central Europe. When attacking a tree, bark beetles introduce ophiostomatoid fungi into the tree, which then have a greater effect on the properties of the wood than the beetles themselves. Fungal hyphae grow through the lumina of wood cells and spread between individual cells through pits. Both white rot and brown rot fungi are associated with enzymatic degradation of lignin or holocellulose, which is subsequently reflected in the change of the physical and mechanical properties of wood. Wood-decay fungi that colonize wood after infestation of a tree with bark beetles can cause significant changes in the structure and properties of the wood, and these changes are predominantly negative, in the form of reducing modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, discolouration, or, over time, weight loss. In certain specific examples, a reduction in energy consumption for the production of wood particles from beetle-attacked trees, or an increase in surface free energy due to wood infestation by staining fungi in order to achieve better adhesion of paints or glues, can be evaluated positively.

This study aimed to determine the effects of physical, chemical and water-holding capacity of Quartzarenic Neosol, Red Latosol and Red Nitosol on tree growth, physicomechanical properties and anatomical features of wood from 33-year-old C. citriodora plantations. More clayey soils with higher water availability, such as Red Latosol and Red Nitosol, increased the mean annual increment and heartwood percentage. In more sandy soils, such as Quartzarenic Neosol, density increased, but the size and diameter of fibers and vessels decreased, and both fiber cell wall thickness and frequency of vessels and rays increased. Wood shrinkage and mechanical properties did not differ between soils. We observed a gradual increase in the anatomical, physical and mechanical characteristics in the pith-bark direction. The uniformity index showed that Quartzarenic Neosol and Red Latosol soils produced more homogeneous woods. We concluded that soil texture and water availability influenced tree growth, anatomical properties and wood density. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar los efectos de la capacidad física, química y de retención de agua de Quartzarenic Neosol, Red Latosol y Red Nitosol sobre el crecimiento de los árboles, las propiedades fisicomecánicas y las características anatómicas de la madera de plantaciones de 33 años de C. citriodora. Suelos más arcillosos con mayor disponibilidad de agua, como Red Latosol y Red Nitosol, aumentaron el incremento medio anual y el porcentaje de duramen. En suelos más arenosos, como Quartzarenic Neosol, la densidad aumentó, pero el tamaño y el diámetro de las fibras y los vasos disminuyeron, y aumentaron tanto el grosor de la pared celular de las fibras como la frecuencia de los vasos y los rayos. La contracción de la madera y las propiedades mecánicas no difirieron entre los suelos. Observamos un aumento gradual de las características anatómicas, físicas y mecánicas en la dirección médula-corteza. El índice de uniformidad mostró que los suelos Quartzarenic Neosol y Red Latosol produjeron maderas más homogéneas. Concluimos que la textura del suelo y la disponibilidad de agua influyeron en el crecimiento de los árboles, las propiedades anatómicas y la densidad de la madera. Este estudo teve como objetivo determinar os efeitos da capacidade física, química e de retenção de água do Neossolo Quartzarênico, Latossolo Vermelho e Nitossolo Vermelho sobre o crescimento arbóreo, propriedades físico-mecânicas e características anatômicas da madeira de plantações com 33 anos de C. citriodora. Solos mais argilosos e com maior disponibilidade hídrica, como o Latossolo Vermelho e o Nitossolo Vermelho, aumentaram o incremento médio anual e a porcentagem de cerne. Em solos mais arenosos, como o Neossolo Quartzarênico, a densidade aumentou, mas o tamanho e o diâmetro das fibras e vasos diminuíram, e a espessura da parede celular da fibra e a frequência dos vasos e raios aumentaram. A retração da madeira e as propriedades mecânicas não diferiram entre os solos. Observamos um aumento gradativo das características anatômicas, físicas e mecânicas no sentido medula-casca. O índice de uniformidade mostrou que os solos de Neossolo Quartzarênico e Latossolo Vermelho produziram madeiras mais homogêneas. Concluímos que a textura do solo e a disponibilidade de água influenciaram o crescimento das árvores, as propriedades anatômicas e a densidade da madeira.

While X-ray scanning is increasingly used to measure the interior quality of logs, terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) could be used to collect information on external tree characteristics. As branches are one key indicator of wood quality, we compared TLS and X-ray scanning data in deriving whorl locations and each whorl's maximum branch and knot diameters for 162 Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) log sections. The mean number of identified whorls per tree was 37.25 and 22.93 using X-ray and TLS data, respectively. The lowest TLS-derived whorl in each sample tree was an average 5.56 m higher than that of the X-ray data. Whorl-to-whorl mean distances and the means of the maximum branch and knot diameters in a whorl measured for each sample tree using TLS and X-ray data had mean differences of -0.12 m and -6.5 mm, respectively. One of the most utilized wood quality indicators, tree-specific maximum knot diameter measured by X-ray, had no statistically significant difference to the tree-specific maximum branch diameter measured from the TLS point cloud. It appears challenging to directly derive comparative branch structure information using TLS and X-ray. However, some features that are extractable from TLS point clouds are potential wood quality indicators.

Simultaneous applications of thinning and pruning are common silvicultural practices in radiata pine (Pinus radiata) forest plantations. Their separate effects on tree growth and wood quality have been well studied, but their combined effect is not clear yet. The aim of this study is to identify how thinning and pruning together affect the stem structure and properties of the pruned but also the unpruned section of the trees (the portions formed immediately after the application of these management efforts). The effects of pruning and thinning on the number of growth units per year, internode length, number of branches, and branch diameters was analyzed in managed and unmanaged stands of radiata pine grown in Chile. When used jointly, these practices generated larger individual tree volumes (135% more) and clear wood in the pruned logs; however, they also reduced the sawn wood quality of the unpruned stem section for some years after the silvicultural interventions. The managed trees showed more growth units per annual shoot and shorter internodes, thus generating more knotty wood. Moreover, managed trees showed more taper. As trees of the managed stand restore the foliar biomass lost due to pruning, managed and unmanaged stands approach the same level of canopy closure, and differences minimize.

The manufacture of wooden pieces with appropriate properties according to each type of use requires a great knowledge about their variability, especially in the radial direction. The present study aims to determine the age of segregation between juvenile and mature woods of sycamore (Platanus x acerifolia) wood by the radial variation of its basic density. Sycamore trees were randomly selected in two physiographic regions of the southern Brazil, namely Central Depreciation and Hill Top northeast. To determine density, the volume of the saturated samples was measured by the buoyancy method and the dry mass was obtained by weighing after drying in an oven at 103 °C. Sycamore wood segregated at distance between 11 cm and 16 cm from the pitch, corresponding to the 12th and 15th growth rings. The density presented significant variability when compared between regions and/or juvenile and mature woods.

A densidade basica e uma das mais importantes caracteristicas das madeiras e usada em programas de melhoramento genetico florestal. Este trabalho teve o objetivo de construir um modelo de predicao da densidade basica de madeiras de Pinus maximinoi e Pinus tecunumanii , usando a espectroscopia no infravermelho proximo e analise estatistica multivariada. O modelo foi construido com 54 amostras usando minimos multiplos quadrados (PLS) como tratamento estatistico (com alisamento do sinal, variacao normal padrao SNV e primeira derivada). A curva de calibracao apresentou coeficiente de determinacao (R 2 ) de 0,94 e erro de validacao cruzada de aproximadamente 30 kg m -3 para uma densidade basica media de 517 kg m -3 . Este modelo foi validado externamente com 27 amostras nao usadas na construcao da curva de calibracao. O erro da validacao externa foi de aproximadamente 47 kg m -3 e a razao de desempenho do desvio (RPD) de 1,9, mostrando que o modelo pode ser usado para selecao previa de grande numero de amostras.

There is a lack of techniques for the rapid and accurate determination of wood quality for charcoal production with good energy characteristics. The association of NIR spectroscopy and important charcoal parameters allows the prediction of these characteristics. This is a fast method that does not require sample preparation before the reading. The spectral readings were performed with solid and ground samples, and presented the second best representation of the evaluated parameters. Data went was adjusted to correct for variations that could occur during the spectra reading. The treatment with the best results was the normal transformation of variation. The evaluated spectra were able to explain 77% of the data for the variable gravimetric yield, 88% for volatile materials content and 86% for fixed carbon content.

Summary We assessed wood quality in common walnut using a combination of physical properties and structural features. Five common walnut trees were selected and processed in order to produce wood samples for further analyses. The results showed a wide spread of values of structural features and of wood water content. The color indices were strongly grouped around the averages. All experimental distributions were stratified following at least one of the analyzed factors (tree and its structural directions i.e. longitudinal, radial, and tangential). The radial anisotropy was the most pronounced. The longitudinal stability of density and water content, the inter-tree stability of color saturation as well as the homogeneity of all color indices on the girth were noticed. The heartwood covered up to 12.5% of transverse section and included 1–10 growth rings. The annual rate of bio-accumulation allowed the separation of stages of radial development of the structure using the width of growth rings: juvenile wood, composed of the first 8–9 rings from the pith; a transition zone to the mature wood (10 rings); and mature wood under way to be formed. Wood density was not a reliable criterion for differentiating the sapwood from heartwood but brightness, redness and hue’s color could be used for this purpose.

Current in-field methods for grading logs are based on visual rating scales, which are subjective, operator-dependent and time-consuming. Various wood defects such as knots, resin pockets, rot and compression wood, amongst others, affect the quality and potential usage of a log. Early detection of these defects and an adequate wood quality classification help to optimise resource use along the whole production chain. Therefore, the specific target for the development of an efficient in-field grading approach was defined within the project Integrated processing and controL systems fOr sustainable forest Production in mountain areas – SLOPE. The grading is conducted by means of automatic measurements of selected wood properties with diverse sensors, including near infrared (NIR) spectrometers. A series of studies was conducted on wooden discs using laboratory equipment and a portable NIR spectrometer. In-field measurements of standing trees and harvested logs were also performed using a portable instrument. Principal components analysis models for identification of log defects were developed using the spectra collected with both instruments. Such models will serve for the automated determination of quality indexes to be used for log grading. It is foreseen that the NIR-based quality indexes will be integrated with the expert system under development within the SLOPE project and combined with quality information derived from other sensors. The overall goal is to provide a reliable technology for automatic log quality grading in the forest industry.

Wood density is one of the most important and well documented wood quality attributes. However, studies focusing on the effects of thinning combined with pruning on wood density in Mediterranean areas are scarce, even though both are recommended practices in forests managed for the production of high-quality timber. We assess the effects of both silvicultural interventions on wood density traits (tree-ring, earlywood, and latewood) and on the percentage of latewood, on an annual scale, for the main timber species Pinus sylvestris L. and Pinus nigra Arnold (subsp. nigra and subsp. salzmannii) in Mediterranean mountains. To this end, three trials (one species per trial) were established in monospecific reforestations in the 1990s. Three silvicultural treatments were applied: thinning, thinning combined with pruning, and a control. At the time of installation, stand ages ranged from 26 to 37 years. Small differences were found among treatments in regard to the wood density attributes, with no significant effects of thinning and pruning on the studied wood traits in either timber species. The two subspecies of P. nigra presented comparatively denser wood than P. sylvestris. Our results suggest that thinning and pruning treatments can be applied without causing unfavourable changes to wood density.

Species of the genus Eucalyptus managed for sawlogs in fast-growing plantations show high potential for substitution for valuable native hardwoods. To obtain high quality wood, technical pruning is necessary. The objective of the study is to analyse the development of the branches for the first and second pruning lifts and to quantify the biomass of the pruned branches. For the study two stands of Eucalyptus grandis were selected (age 18 and 36 months) for evaluating a pruning lift from 0 to 3 m and 3 to 6 m. The average branch diameter and length were 18 mm and 2.1 m in the younger stand and 21 mm and 2.3 m in the older one. The relation between branch diameter and branch length could be expressed in a linear model (R² = 0.8). In both stands a higher proportion of branches were already dead. The oven-dry biomass of the pruned branches was 2.2 ton.ha-1 in the first pruning lift and 1.2 ton.ha-1 in the second. The results showed that branch development in wide spaced and early thinned eucalypt plantations is in line with the objective of high quality wood production. Pruning should take place before 18 month to avoid dead branches. The oven-dry branch biomass cut in the two pruning lifts shows a low volume making a commercial utilization difficult.

RESUMOO objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar o rendimento da matéria-prima de Eucalyptus benthamii, por meio dos desdobros tangencial e radial, além da classificação das toras quanto à presença das rachaduras de topo. A classificação das toras quanto às rachaduras foi realizada por meio da análise visual, em que era aplicado um conceito conforme a intensidade do defeito. Posteriormente, as toras foram separadas em duas classes diamétricas (20 a 25 e 25,1 a 30 cm) e processadas em três sistemas de desdobro (tangencial em bloco, radial e tangencial em bloco com face curva), sendo cada tratamento composto por três repetições com 10 toras cada um. Na análise estatística dos dados de rendimento, foram aplicados o teste de Kolmogorov Smirnov, a Análise da Variância e o teste de Tukey. Nos resultados, foi observado que a maioria das toras da classe de menor diâmetro apresentou intensidade mediana, enquanto na maior classe diamétrica a intensidade foi baixa. Os rendimentos médios líquidos encontrados foram de 43,5% e 39,2% nas classes inferior e superior, respectivamente, os quais foram influenciados pelas rachaduras das peças e pelos destopos. Observou-se que o desdobro tangencial em bloco e em face curva foram os métodos que apresentaram maior aproveitamento em madeira serrada na classe de 20 a 25 cm, enquanto na classe de 25,1 a 30 cm o sistema tangencial em bloco e radial foi equivalente. ABSTRACTThe aim of this study was to determine the yield of raw material of Eucalyptus benthamii through the tangential and radial sawing, besides classifying the logs for the presence of end splits. The classification of logs as for the splits was accomplished by means of visual analysis, using a concept which was applied according to the intensity of the defect. Subsequently, the logs were separated into two diametric classes (20 to 25, and 25.1 to 30 cm) and processed in three sawing systems (tangential block, radial and tangential block with curved face), each treatment consisting of 3 replicates with 10 logs each. Statistical analysis of yield data was carried out using the Kolmogorov Smirnov test, Analysis of Variance and Tukey test. In the results it was observed that most of the logs of smaller diameter class presented median intensity, whereas for larger diameter class, the intensity was low. The average net yields found were 43.5% and 39.2% for the lower and upper classes, respectively, which were influenced by the splits of parts and the trimming. It was observed that the tangential sawing block and curved face were the methods that presented greater use of lumber of the class 20 to 25 cm, while in the class 25.1 to 30 cm, the block and radial tangential system were equivalent.

International audience; AbstractKey messageIndustrial computed tomography scanning of logs provides detailed information on timber quality prior to sawing. A sawing simulation—considering log rotation angle and knot size accuracy—revealed an average value increase of up to 20% for the best angle compared to the conventional horns-up position.ContextComputed tomography (CT) scanning has the potential to improve the value of products sawn from logs and meets the increasing demands of the wood industry for detailed information on log quality prior to processing.AimsIn a validation step, automated measurements of knot cluster variable DAB (DIN 4074-1:2012-06) using CT were compared with manual measurements. In a second optimization step, the hypothesis that the value of the sawn products is increased by sawing at the best rotation angle as opposed to the horns-up position was tested.MethodsA sample of 36 Douglas-fir logs were scanned in an industrial CT scanner, and sawn into boards. Knots on the boards were manually measured, and compared with the corresponding knots on virtual boards created from the CT data. The error of the DAB was measured by comparing CT data to manual measurements. An optimized sawing simulation was performed, using the measured DAB error to account for CT measurement errors, as well as a rotational error to account for errors in the log turning equipment. Using the results of the sawing simulation, Monte Carlo simulations were performed to show the potential and benefit of an industrial CT scanner.ResultsThe three largest DABs measured by the CT showed good correlation to the measurements on the manual boards. The simulation revealed an average increase of value from 4 to 20% compared to the conventional horns-up position depending on the relative price differences between the strength grades.ConclusionBy using a CT scanner to optimize sawing, sawmill owners can process logs in a better way to produce final products with increased added value.

International audience; AbstractContextOne of the most important wood defects affecting the value yield from European beech (Fagus sylvatica [L.]) logs is knots that are visible on the sawn wood surface. The non-invasive technology of X-ray computed tomography (CT) can be used for the assessment of log internal features, especially the geometry and position of knots before primary breakdown to support the decision of value-optimised log rotation in sawmills.AimsThe objective of this study was to test whether value-optimised log rotation can be performed successfully by using the CT-derived knowledge of internal knottiness for the hardwood species beech.MethodsSize parameters of 670 knots were measured and their position was marked in CT images from 33 logs. The 3D-reconstructed logs were virtually sawn in 12 different rotational angles using the software InnoSIM. This allowed visual grading of the simulated sawn wood and the calculation of product volume and value.ResultsThe results show that if optimal rotation was applied to each single log, both total volume as well as total product value yield could be improved by up to 24 % compared with the average yield of all simulated rotational angles.ConclusionIn this small-scale study, it is demonstrated that CT technology could be used to support the decision about optimal rotational angle of beech logs to maximise volume and value yield.

Wood stiffness is an important wood mechanical property that predetermines the suitability of sawn timber for construction purposes. Negative genetic correlations between wood stiffness and growth traits have, however, been reported for many conifer species including Scots pine. It is, therefore, important that breeding programs consider wood stiffness and growth traits simultaneously. The study aims to (1) evaluate different approaches of calculating the dynamic modulus of elasticity (MOE, non-destructively assessed stiffness) using data from Xray analysis (SilviScan) as a benchmark, (2) estimate genetic parameters, and (3) apply index selection. In total, we non-destructively measured 622 standing trees from 175 fullsib families for acoustic velocity (VEL) using Hitman and for wood density (DEN) using Resistograph and Pilodyn. We combined VEL with different wood densities, raw (DENRES) and adjusted (DENRES.TB) Resistograph density, Pilodyn density measured with (DENPIL) and without bark (DENPIL.B), constant of 1000 kg&middot, m-3 (DENCONST), and SilviScan density (DENSILV), to calculate MOEs and compare them with the benchmark SilviScan MOE (MOESILV). We also derived Smith&ndash, Hazel indices for simultaneous improvement of stem diameter (DBH) and wood stiffness. The highest additive genetic and phenotypic correlations of the benchmark MOESILV with the alternative MOE measures (tested) were attained by MOEDENSILV (0.95 and 0.75, respectively) and were closely followed by MOEDENRES.TB (0.91 and 0.70, respectively) and MOEDENCONST and VEL (0.91 and 0.65, respectively for both). Correlations with MOEDENPIL, MOEDENPIL.B, and MOEDENRES were lower. Narrowsense heritabilities were moderate, ranging from 0.39 (MOESILV) to 0.46 (MOEDENSILV). All indices revealed an opportunity for joint improvement of DBH and MOE. Conclusions: MOEDENRES.TB appears to be the most efficient approach for indirect selection for wood stiffness in Scots pine, although VEL alone and MOEDENCONST have provided very good results too. An index combining DBH and MOEDENRES.TB seems to offer the best compromise for simultaneous improvement of growth, fiber, and wood quality traits.

Trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) is one of the most abundant poplar species in North America; it is native, displays substantial breadth in distribution inhabiting several geographical and climatic ecoregions, is notable for its rapid growth, and is ecologically and economically important. As the demand for raw material continues to increase rapidly, there is a pressing need to improve both tree quality and growth rates via breeding efforts. Hybridization is considered one of the most promising options to simultaneously accelerate these tree characteristics, as it takes advantage of heterosis. Two aspen species showing particular promise for hybridization with trembling aspen are European aspen (P. tremula) and Chinese aspen (P. davidiana) because their native climates are similar to that of P. tremuloides and are also very easy to hybridize. In 2003, aspen clones were planted in Athabasca, Alberta from the following species crosses: open pollinated (OP) P. tremuloides (NN), OP P. davidiana (CC), P. tremula × P. tremula (EE), P. tremula × P. tremuloides (EN), and P. tremuloides × P. davidiana (CN). In November 2010, growth measurements and core samples were taken from seven-year field grown clones. Comparisons of the mean growth and cell wall traits were made between crosses using generalized linear model least squares means tests for stem volume, fiber length, fiber width, coarseness, wood density, microfibril angle, total cell wall carbohydrate and lignin content, and lignin composition. The results clearly indicated that the inter-specific crosses offer a means to breed for more desirable wood characteristics than the intra-specific Populus spp. crosses.

There is a growing interest to use acoustic sensors for selection in tree breeding to ensure high wood quality of future plantations. In this study, we assessed acoustic velocity as a selection trait for the improvement of mechanical wood properties in two 15- and 32-year-old white spruce (Picea glauca [Moench.] Voss) genetic tests. Individual heritability of acoustic velocity was moderate and of the same magnitude as heritability of wood density. Considerable genetic gain could be expected for acoustic velocity and a measure combining velocity and wood density. The relationship between acoustic velocity and cellulose microfibril angle (MFA) was strong on the genetic level and selection based on velocity could effectively improve MFA, which is one of the most important determinants of wood mechanical properties. Although low, the positive relationship between acoustic velocity and tree height presents an interesting opportunity for the improvement of both tree growth and wood quality. On the phenotypic level, MFA was more strongly correlated to acoustic velocity in mature trees than in young trees. The addition of easily obtainable traits such as diameter at breast height (DBH), height-to-diameter ratio as well as wood density to velocity determinations could improve models of MFA at the young and the mature age. We conclude that juvenile acoustic velocity is an appropriate trait to select for wood quality in a tree breeding context.

Aim of the study: This paper aims to valorize the wood of Quercus faginea Lam. for high quality end uses (e.g. furniture) by studying growth and quality properties using mature trees. Age trends in tree-ring width and wood density are shown and the main factors responsible for variations in tree-ring width and wood density within and between trees are investigated. Area of study: The study site is in the center of Portugal within the natural species distribution area.Material and methods: Radial samples from ten mature trees were collected at 6 heights (from base to 9.7 m) and prepared for X-ray microdensity.Main results: Wood density showed high values, ranging from 0.868 g/cm3 to 0.957 g/cm3. Wood density decreased from pith to bark and with stem height. Cambial age showed a linear relationship with wood density and most of the variation in wood is explained by age. Intra-ring and axial within-tree homogeneity was good.Research highlights: Mature trees of Q. faginea showed high wood density and a high potential for high quality end uses, comparable to other oaks. Wood density is influenced by cambial age and tree-ring width. Wood quality may be improved by tree growth rates adjustment e.g. through an adequate tree stand density (e.g. thinning operations).

Rad obrađuje stvaranje drva pitomog kestena (Castanea sativa) tijekom vegetacije u 2008. i 2009. godini. Uspoređuje se dinamika stvaranja drva u te dvije godine i raspravlja o mogucem utjecaju na njegovu kvalitetu. Za tu su svrhu s deset stabala pitomog kestena u planinama Cimini, pokraj mjesta Viterbo u sredisnjoj Italiji, u tjednim intervalima skupljeni mikroizvrtci koji su sadržavali drvo, kambij i fl oem. Pocetak stvaranja drva u 2008. godini dogodio se prije uzimanja prvih uzoraka 17. travnja 2008. Pocetak lignifi kacije prvooblikovanih traheja primijecen je oko 23. travnja (dan u godini DOY 113,8 ± 5,3), a prve traheje kasnog drva primijecene su oko 5. lipnja (DOY 156,5 ± 7,7). Stvaranje kasnog drva nastavljeno je do 29. rujna 2008. (DOY 273,9 ± 10,5), kad su zavrsne stanice novostvorenoga goda drva bile potpuno lignifi cirane. U 2009. godini glavne su se faze stvaranja drva uglavnom pojavile ranije nego u 2008. godini. Sirenje traheja ranog drva primijeceno je oko 10. travnja (DOY 99,7 ± 6,1), pocetak lignifi kacije oko 22. travnja (DOY 111,9 ± 7,4), a prve traheje kasnog drva oko 28. svibnja 2009. (DOY 147,9 ± 4,7). Lignifi kacija zadnjih proizvedenih stanica zavrsena je do 26. rujna 2009.(DOY 273,9 ± 10,5). Prosjecno trajanje stvaranja goda drva u 2008. godini iznosilo je 161 dan, a u 2009. godini 169 dana. Prosjecne sirine godova bile su 3296 ± 1514 μm u 2008. godini i 3166 ± 1073 μm u 2009. godini, a postotni udjel kasnog drva iznosio je 76 i 74% godova u 2008., odnosno u 2009. godini. Male razlike u vremenu pocetka pojedine faza stvaranja drva u dvjema promatranim godinama vjerojatno su posljedica malih varijacija klimatskih uvjeta između te dvije godine i cini se da nemaju velik utjecaj na sirinu godova ni na postotak kasnog drva, a to su dva važna cimbenika koji utjecu na kvalitetu drva prstenasto poroznih vrsta.

A qualidade da madeira aparentemente está associada às características dendrométricas, que por sua vez são influenciadas pelas condições de crescimento. Os objetivos deste estudo foram a caracterização dendrométrica e a realização de correlações de Pearson entre alguns parâmetros tecnológicos da madeira do híbrido clonal de Eucalyptus urophylla x Eucalyptus grandis sob três estratos silviculturais. Os dados dendrométricos foram analisados mediante a análise de regressão. Os resultados mostraram que o híbrido apresenta comportamento similar ao das demais madeiras da mesma espécie que cresceram em outras regiões, destacando-se a espessura do alburno no E1 (talhadia simples, 70 meses e com um desbaste), com pouca variação ao longo do fuste. Todas as árvores apresentaram, em geral, baixa conicidade ao longo do fuste e baixo volume de casca entre os estratos. Na correlação de Pearson foram avaliados entre si nove parâmetros dendrométricos, sete físicos e três mecânicos, longitudinalmente em seções de 3 m e na posição medula-casca nas duas primeiras toras. Os coeficientes encontrados demonstram haver fortes correlações entre as propriedades, destacando-se a densidade básica em relação às demais características e o coeficiente de anisotropia, ambas importantes no processo de desdobro e secagem da madeira. Não houve correlações significativas nas contrações lineares e volumétricas ao longo do comprimento do fuste. A variação radial mostrou boas correlações entre todas as propriedades mecânicas avaliadas nas duas primeiras toras. Em contrapartida, as propriedades físicas avaliadas na posição radial não apresentaram correlações significativas. Wood quality is apparently associated with the dendrometric characteristics that are influenced by growth conditions. The aim of this study was the dendrometric characterization and realization of Pearson Correlations among some technological parameters in the clonal hybrid wood Eucalyptus urophylla x Eucalyptus grandis grown in three silvicultural extracts. The dendrometric data were analyzed by regression analysis. The results show that the hybrid presents similar behavior to other eucalypt of the same species grown in other places with sapwood thickness in E1 (coppice with 70 months and one thinning), with little variation along the stem. All evaluated trees presented, in general, a low taper along the stem with very little bark volume among the extracts. The Pearson Correlation studied nine dendrometric parameters, seven physical and three mechanical properties. The parameters were evaluated, longitudinally, in three meter sections along the stem and in the pith-bark position in the first two logs according to the Pearson's Correlation. The coefficients demonstrated a strong correlation among the properties, with basic density being highly correlated to the other characteristics and anisotropic coefficient, important in the process of sawing and drying wood, as well as sapwood thickness. The correlation to the height relationship wasn't significant to the linear and volumetric shrinkage. Radial variation showed a good correlation among all the evaluated mechanical properties in the two first logs. On the other hand, the physical properties in the radial position didn't present significant correlations with tangential shrinkage.

The subject of the research, which is the Polish managed part of Białowieża Forest together with Białowieża National Park, a remnant of primeval forests, is one of the most valuable forest areas in Europe. This article presents the history of the use of these forests. The assortment and species structure of the harvested timber was analyzed in detail for the Białowieża, Browsk, and Hajn&oacute, wka Forest Districts from 2008 to 2017. The research is based on data from the State Forests Information System (SILP) and Forest Management Plans (PUL), as well as Nature Conservation Programs (POP). The volume of harvested timber was diversified. In 2011&ndash, 2013, it was limited by a decision of the Minister of the Environment from 110,000 m3 in 2010 to 48,500 m3. This contributed to the increase of the European spruce bark beetle gradation, causing the death of spruce stands. By an annex to the Forest Management Plan issued in 2016, the Minister of the Environment increased the amount of the timber harvest. In 2017, it amounted to almost 190,000 m3, where 91% of the harvested volume was spruce, but the wood was markedly inferior in technical quality compared to previous years. Such a large increase in harvesting aroused the opposition mainly of environmental organizations and the European Commission. In April 2018, the EU Court of Justice decided that Poland violated EU law by increasing the number of felled trees in Białowieża Forest. After this decision, the Minister of the Environment repealed the earlier decision, the basis for conducting the increased wood harvesting in Białowieża Forest. Changes in the timber harvested in terms of volume, quality, and assortment, are due to the specificity of managing environmentally valuable areas. This relates to the many limitations on commercial forestry, which must take into account the need to protect nature and the legal acts regulating timber harvesting.

Branch development in the lower part of stem is critical to both early stem growth and wood quality of the most valuable section of tree, and its regulation through planting density has always been greatly concerned. Here the effect of planting density on branch development was examined in a five-year-old plantation of Betula alnoides with six planting densities (625, 833, 1111, 1250, 1667, and 2500 stems per hectare (sph)) in Guangdong Province, South China. Branch quantity (number, proportion, and density), morphology (diameter, length, and angle), position (height and orientation), and branch status (dead or alive) were investigated for 54 dominant or co-dominant trees under six treatments of planting density after the growth of each tree was measured. Factors influencing branch development were also explored by mixed modelling. The results showed that the mean tree heights of 1250 and 1667 sph treatments were higher than those of other planting density treatments. The quantity of live branches decreased with increasing planting density. However, planting density had no significant effect on the number of all branches, and there existed no remarkable difference in branch number and proportion among four orientations. As for branch morphology, only the largest branch diameter had a significantly negative correlation with planting density. In addition, high planting density significantly increased the height of the largest branch within the crown. Mixed effects models indicated that branch diameter, length, and angle were closely correlated with each other, and they were all in positively significant correlation to the branch height at the stem section below six meters. It was concluded that properly increasing planting density will promote natural pruning, improve early branch control, and be beneficial for wood production from the most valuable section of the stem.

Os macacos-prego (Sapajus nigritus) descascam árvores de pinus para consumir seiva em períodos de escassez de frutos nos remanescentes de Floresta com Araucária onde vivem. Este trabalho teve por objetivo demonstrar como se dá a perda física e financeira da madeira de pinus com danos provocados por macacos-prego. O estudo utilizou dados de um povoamento de Pinus taeda L. com 25 hectares, localizado no município de General Carneiro, região Centro-Sul do estado do Paraná. Foram medidas toras colhidas em dois desbastes (10 e 15 anos), bem como na colheita final (19 anos), com a quantificação das perdas de volume e da qualidade da madeira em função dos danos físicos, divididos em dois padrões: anelamentos ou janelamentos. Essas perdas foram avaliadas economicamente, comparando-se a receita obtida nos desbastes e no corte raso com a receita obtida com toras de árvores não danificadas. Concluiu-se que os danos provocados por macacos-prego resultam em perdas de incremento e qualidade da madeira, em que a primeira se dá principalmente em árvores com danos do tipo anelamento, enquanto a segunda nas árvores com janelamentos. Os dois tipos de danos levam a perdas de receita bruta para o povoamento, sendo essa maior no caso de anelamentos. Made available in DSpace on 2018-05-05T00:58:04Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 2018SandraBosImpactododescascamentodearvores.pdf: 1013108 bytes, checksum: 3361a717f8df7435a69bfdb8463b5659 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2018-04-06

In Brazil, eucalyptus breeding programs for cellulose production has used two species, Eucalyptus grandis and Eucalyptus urophylla. Nevertheless, it would be useful to introgress alleles from other species to improve wood quality and volume. The objective of this research was to evaluate the hybrid potential of elite clones of E. grandis and E. urophylla from the Aracruz Celulose Company S. A. with Eucalyptus globulus clones. To do so, six elite clones were crossed with ten E. globulus clones in a half-diallel mating design. The resulting hybrid combinations as well as the four check clones were evaluated in randomized complete block experiments with single plant plots and 40 replicates from September to October 2001 at three Brazilian sites, Aracruz and São Mateus in the Espírito Santo state and Caravelas in Bahia State. Two years later the circumference at breast height (CBH) and the wood density (WD) were measured. The means were submitted to diallel analysis according to the Griffing method (1956), adapted by Geraldi and Miranda Filho (1988). Although the number of clones involved was small, the crossings of elite clones of E. grandis and E. urophylla with clones of E. globulus were promising, especially for wood quality gains.

O presente trabalho teve como objetivos a caracterização e identificação de QTLs para características de crescimento e de qualidade da madeira em híbridos de eucalipto derivados do cruzamento entre E. grandis e E. urophylla. Para isso foi desenvolvido um mapa de ligação RAPD pouco saturado (LOD = 3 e r = 0,40) contendo 52 marcas e 12 grupos de ligação. Características de qualidade da madeira e características de crescimento foram avaliadas quanto à presença de QTLs. Foram utilizadas metodologias de mapeamento por marca simples, mapeamento por intervalo simples e mapeamento por intervalo composto para posicionamento e caracterização dos efeitos dos QTLs. Todas as análises geraram resultados consistentes que indicaram a existência de QTLs relacionados com a expressão das características densidade, rendimento de polpa e teor de extrativos confirmados pela metodologia de mapeamento por intervalo simples e pelo mapeamento por intervalo composto e, ainda, outras regiões de menor significância confirmadas apenas pela metodologia de mapeamento por intervalo composto (teor de lignina solúvel, teor de lignina insolúvel, DAP e altura total). A sobreposição de QTLs em determinadas regiões dos grupos de ligação pode ser resultado da existência de regiões do genoma mais importantes para o crescimento e desenvolvimento da planta, indicando a existência de blocos gênicos de maior efeito relacionados com a regulação e controle das características estudadas. Visando comparar o efeito da seleção assistida, marcadores moleculares adjacentes aos QTLs detectados foram considerados como critério para a seleção individual. A comparação dos valores dos diferenciais de seleção evidenciou que a seleção fenotípica aos 7 anos resulta em ganhos superiores à seleção precoce e a combinação das duas estratégias deve contribuir para um aumento na eficiência dos métodos de seleção. The present work aimed to characterize and identify QTLs for wood quality and growth traits in E. grandis x E. urophylla hybrids. For this purpose a RAPD linkage map was developed for the hybrids (LOD=3 and r=0.40) containing 52 markers and 12 linkage groups. Traits related to wood quality and growth were evaluated in the QTL analyses. QTL analyses were performed using chi-square tests, single-marker, interval mapping and composite interval mapping analyses. All approaches led to the identification of similar QTLs associated with wood density, cellulose pulp yield and percentage of extractives, which were detected and confirmed by both the interval mapping and composite interval mapping methodologies. Some QTLs regions were confirmed only by the composite interval mapping methodology: percentage of soluble lignin, percentage of insoluble lignin, CBH and total height. Overlapping QTLs regions were detected, and these, can be the result of major genes involved in the regulation and control of the growth traits by epistatic interactions. In order to evaluate the effect of early selection using RAPD molecular data, molecular markers adjacent to QTLs were used genotype selection. The analysis of selection differential values suggests that for all the traits the phenotypic selection at seven years should generate larger genetic gains than early selection assisted by molecular markers and the combination of the strategies should elevate the selection efficiency.

Aims of study: The short- and long-term effects of weed control and fertilization on growth and wood anatomy of 10-y-old Populus deltoides were investigated. Weed control and fertilization usually leads to an increase the growth rate of trees, and consequently, a possible modification in the quality of produced wood. Area of study: We analyzed trees from an experimental plantation in Buenos Aires, Argentina (34°50’ S Lat; 60°30’ W Long). Methods: 32 trees from three treatments: mechanical weed control (M), chemical and mechanical weed control (CHM) and fertilized plus chemical and mechanical weed control (CHM-F) were analyzed. Basal area, fibre morphology, cell wall area and vessel size were measured in the growth ring 1, 3 and 10. Results: differences on wood anatomy among treatments were mainly observed at the third year (short-term effect). Long-term negative effects were not observed. Fertilized trees had greater proportion and quality of wood closer to pith. Research highlights: fibre and vessel differences seen in CHM and CHM-F compared to controls in year 3 could be interpreted as evidence of maturation in cambial development (thicker, longer and wider fibres and greater vessels). The CHM-F treatment had a greater proportion of wood that showed characteristics of more mature wood., Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias y Forestales

present adress STOKES : UMR AMAP; International audience; Togolese teak (Tectona grandis L.f) is highly resistant to pathogen attack, but variability in natural durability exists between trees of different ages, plantations and geographical zones. Therefore, further information concerning this parameter of wood quality is necessary; however, traditional testing methods are difficult and time-consuming to carry out. We tested the possibility of using colorimetry to determine durability in heartwood samples taken from a wide range of trees. Twelve hundred samples from 31 trees were exposed to four fungi: Pycnoporus sanguineus, Antrodia sp., Gloephylum trabeum, and Coriolus versicolor. Wood samples were grouped into three classes (inner, intermediate and outer heartwood). The colour parameters of each sample were then determined using the CIELAB (L*, a*, b*) system and results correlated with the %mass loss of wood after fungal attack. Tests showed that Antrodia sp. and C. versicolor resulted in

International audience; The main objective of this work was to evaluate the genetic control of Pinus pinaster wood quality by estimating the heritability of wood density components and its age evolution. The material was collected from 180 trees by the extraction of an increment core, in a progeny test at 18 years old. The wood density components were measured using the X-ray densitometry technique. The highest and most stable age heritability values were obtained by the earlywood components (minimum density and earlywood density), followed by the average ring density. The latewood percentage, ring width and heterogeneity revealed middle values, while the latewood components (maximum density and latewood density) always presented the lowest and most unstable heritability values. Thus, it was concluded that, amongst all components, the earlywood density mostly depends on genetic effects, and could be used in future selection and tree breeding programs to improve wood quality. The inclusion of the latewood components in the selection criterion will not give any significant genetic advantage.; Héritabilité des composantes de la densité du bois chez Pinus pinaster Ait. et implications pour l'amélioration génétique. L'objectif principal de ce travail était l'étude du contrôle génétique de la qualité du bois du Pinus pinaster Ait., grâce à l'estimation de l'héritabilité des composantes de la densité et de son évolution avec l'âge. Des carottes de sondage ont été extraites de 180 arbres appartenant à un test de comparaison de descendances maternelles âgés de 18 ans depuis la plantation. Les composantes de la densité ont été définies à l'aide de la microdensitométrie sur radiographie aux rayons X. Les valeurs d'héritabilité les plus élevées et les plus stables avec l'âge cambial sont des composantes du bois initial (densité minimale et densité du bois initial), suivies de la densité moyenne. Le pourcentage de bois final, la largeur des cernes et l'hétérogénéité ont présenté des valeurs moyennes, alors que les composantes du bois final (densité maximale et densité du bois final) ont toujours présenté les valeurs les plus basses et les plus instables d'héritabilité. Ainsi, on a pu conclure que, parmi toutes les composantes, la densité du bois initial apparaît la plus dépendante des effets génétiques. Donc, elle pourra être utilisée dans de futurs programmes de sélection et d'amélioration génétique. Quant aux composantes du bois final, leur introduction parmi les critères de sélection, n'apporte aucun bénéfice en terme de gain génétique.

Options for incorporating wood quality in British Columbia’s hemlock breeding program were investigated. Seventy half-sib families were examined. Attention was given to quantitative variation in tracheid characteristics and its effects on pulp and paper properties. Based on the existing knowledge of relationships between fibre properties and paper quality, the potential gain in yield and wood quality was estimated for different selection strategies. Improvement without much trade-off was possible for volume and tensile strength of pulp and paper. Significant trade–offs would be required to improve the volume, tear strength of paper and strength of mechanical pulp. Therefore, multiobjective optimization would be beneficial. Conservative selection strategies seem realistic, and compromises with gain in volume growth may be profitable. The potential loss arising from the uncertainty about economic values for objectives can be overcome by using different selection indices in multiple breeding populations., Nous avons étudié plusieurs stratégies d’introduction de la qualité du bois dans le programme d’amélioration génétique de Tsuga heterophylla en Colombie Britannique. Soixante-dix familles de demi-frères ont été examinées. Nous avons observé la variation quantitative des caractéristiques des trachéides et analysé ses effets sur les propriétés de la pâte et du papier. En nous basant sur la connaissance des liens entre les propriétés des fibres et la qualité du papier, nous avons estimé le gain potentiel pour le rendement et la qualité du bois pour différentes stratégies de sélection. Il est possible d’améliorer simultanément sans faire beaucoup de compromis le volume et la résistance à la traction de la pâte et du papier. Des compromis importants sont nécessaires pour améliorer simultanément le volume, la résistance à la déchirure du papier, et la résistance à la tension de la pâte TMP. En conséquence, l’optimisation multi-objectifs parait intéressante. Les incertitudes sur les poids économiques des caractères, potentiellement responsables de pertes, peuvent être écartées si on utilise des index de sélection différents sur des populations d’amélioration multiples.

International audience; Wood is one of our most important natural resources and has been exploited for many hundreds of years as fuel, building material and a source of paper. Its composition is variable among and within species. The ability to monitor the intra-specific variability is a prerequisite to improve wood and end-products properties. This paper describes a study of the genetic control of a large set of wood properties, including growth, timber quality traits, wood chemical composition, kraft pulp production parameters and pulp properties, in a 12 $\times$ 12 half diallel of maritime pine (Pinus pinaster Ait.). While relatively high (h$^{2}_{\rm ns} > 0.3$) narrow-sense heritabilities were observed for density heterogeneity, lignin content, alpha-cellulose content and coarseness, no significant genetic effect was detected for hemi cellulose, water extractives, kraft pulp production parameters and pylodin. Slightly lower heritabilities ($0.15 < {\rm h}^{2}_{\rm ns} < 0.3$) were also obtained for wood density and fibre properties (length, width, curl, zero span). As a consequence and considering the phenotypic coefficient of variation obtained for these traits, improvement by selection of trees with outstanding wood quality is feasible. Nevertheless, it seems obvious that wood quality breeding can not be done without taking into account growth, and the only way to manage this constraint (negative correlation between growth and density) will be the constitution of elite "wood quality" populations in a already growth improved genetic population.; Déterminisme génétique des propriétés du bois impliquées dans la production papetière et la qualité du bois d'œuvre chez le Pin maritime (Pinus pinaster Ait.). Le bois, une des ressources naturelles les plus importantes, est exploité depuis des centaines d'années comme combustible, matériau de construction et source de papier. Sa composition est très variable, non seulement entre espèces mais aussi au niveau intra spécifique. La compréhension de cette variabilité intra spécifique est un pré-requis de l'amélioration des propriétés des produits à base de bois. L'objectif de l'étude présentée ici est la compréhension du déterminisme génétique de plusieurs caractères impliqués dans la composition chimique et les propriétés du bois (caractéristiques physiques, paramètres de production industrielle et propriétés de la pâte) grâce à l'étude d'un demi diallèle 12 $\times$ 12. Bien que des héritabilités au sens strict relativement élevées (h$^{2}_{\rm ns} >0,3$) aient été obtenues pour l'hétérogénéité de la densité, les contenus en lignine et en alpha-cellulose et la masse linéique, aucun effet génétique significatif n'a été mis en évidence pour le contenu en hémi-cellulose, les extractibles, les paramètres de production de pâtes kraft, et la densité estimée grâce au pilodyn. Des héritabilités plus faibles ($0.15 < {\rm h}^{2}_{\rm ns} < 0.3$) ont quant à elles été obtenues pour la densité du bois et les propriétés des fibres (longueur, largeur, courbure, rigidité). En conséquence, considérant les coefficients de variation phénotypiques obtenus pour ces caractères, des gains génétiques significatifs peuvent être attendus. Néanmoins, l'amélioration des propriétés du bois ne pourra pas se faire sans prendre en compte la croissance. Le seul moyen de gérer cette contrainte (induite par des corrélations négatives entre croissance et densité) sera la constitution de populations élites pour la qualité du bois au sein de bases génétiques déjà améliorées pour la croissance.

This article investigates the relationships between ring width (expressed as ring width class) and cambial age (expressed as chronological class) with specific gravity, modulus of rupture (MOR), compressive strength, and shrinkage. On those stands located on volcanic soils, it was found that when moving from the first ring width class (≤2 mm) to the seventh class (≥7 mm), a total decrease in specific gravity of 12.7% was observed, accompanied by a 19.5% decrease in compressive strength and a 22.8% decrease in MOR. With an increase in tree age, as expressed by the chronological class, there was a general decrease in the values of specific gravity, MOR, and compressive strength. It was therefore determined that chronological class is related to ring width, while specific gravity can predict MOR and compressive strength values for trees grown at volcanic sites. The results for a stand grown on calcareous soils showed a different trend. Furthermore, it was confirmed by cross-variance analysis that there was a correlation between ring width and chronological class.

A method is presented for the gluing of star-sawn triangular profiles of pine (Pinus silvestris L.) into form-stable wood products with vertical annual rings. The triangular profiles are free from pith and from most of the juvenile wood.The method is based on dried and conditioned triangular profiles. Undesired defects are removed and the wood is finger-jointed into long lengths. In the finger-jointing, consideration is given to the appearance and annual ring orientation of the jointed materials. After the jointing, the triangular profiles are planed and glued into rectangular blocks with vertical annual rings. These blocks can then e.g. be used as construction beams or be sawn up into solid wood panels.A pilot plant has been built for the manufacture of knot-free solid wood panels based on the proposed method. Results show a total volume yield of 53.8%. Three critical production stages can be distinguished: removal of knots and defects, planing, and division of blocks into boards. These three operations are together responsible for more than 93% of the total losses in the manufacture.The removal of knots and defects meant a volume loss of 12.8%. 13% of the manufactured units were 2.1 m long without finger-jointing and free from knots and other defects. The average length of the remaining pieces used for finger-jointed units was 0.41 m. Diese Arbeit beschreibt eine Methode zum Verleimen von sterngesägten Dreikantprofilen aus Kiefernholz zu formstabilen Produkten mit stehenden Jahrringen. Die Dreikantprofile sind frei von Mark und überwiegend auch von juvenilem Holz. Verwendet werden getrocknete und konditionierte Profile. Unerwünschte Holzfehler werden ausgeschnitten. Danach werden die Werkstücke durch Keilzinkung längs verleimt, wobei auf das Aussehen und die Ausrichtung der Jahrringe geachtet wird. Nach dem Hobeln werden diese Dreikantwerkstücke zu rechteckigen Blöcken mit stehenden Jahrringen verleimt. Die Blöcke können z.B. für Konstruktionszwecke verwendet oder zu Brettern oder Platten aufgesägt werden. Im Pilotmaßstab werden inzwischen astfreie Platten nach dieser Methode hergestellt. Insgesamt wird eine Volumenausbeute von 53,8% erzielt. Drei kritische Produktionsschritte sind dabei zu beachten: Entfernen der Äste und sonstiger Fehler, Hobeln sowie Auftrennen in Bretter. Bei diesen drei Produktionsschritten fallen über 93% des Massenverlustes an. Das Entfernen der Holzfehler führt zum Verlust von 12,8% des ursprünglichen Volumens. 13% der Werkstücke hatten eine Länge von 2,1 m (astfrei, vor dem Verleimen). Die durchschnittliche Länge der übrigen zum Verleimen verwendeten Stücke betrug 0,41 m. Upprättat; 1998; 20140903 (dicsan)

The objective of this research was to evaluate the dimensional stability of tropical pine species and establish correlations between shrinkage, anisotropy, and density. Seven species of tropical pines were utilized: Pinus caribaea var. bahamensis, Pinus caribaea var. caribaea, Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis, Pinus chiapensis, Pinus maximinoi, Pinus oocarpa, and Pinus tecunumanii; Pinus taeda was also used as reference. The samples were from 17 and 18-year-old experimental plantings located in the municipalities of Ventania, State of Parana and Itararé, State of Sao Paulo. Dimensional stability was evaluated according to the COPANT 462 (1972c) norm. The results indicated that Pinus chiapensis is an unstable species (Ac > 2.6), and that other tropical pine species and Pinus taeda presented low average stability (2.1 to 2.5). There were no strong correlations between the properties proposed probably due to the presence of resin and extractives, which can alter density and inhibit contraction. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a estabilidade dimensional de espécies de Pinus tropicais, além de estabelecer correlações entre a contração volumétrica, a anisotropia de contração e a massa específica. Foram utilizadas sete espécies de Pinus tropicais: Pinus caribaea var. bahamensis, Pinus caribaea var. caribaea, Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis, Pinus chiapensis, Pinus maximinoi, Pinus oocarpa e Pinus tecunumanii, mais o Pinus taeda (referência), todas provenientes de plantios experimentais com 17 e 18 anos, localizados em Ventania-PR e Itararé-SP. A estabilidade dimensional foi avaliada segundo a Norma COPANT 462 (1972c). Os resultados indicaram que o Pinus chiapensis é uma espécie pouco estável (Ac > 2,6) e as demais espécies de Pinus tropicais e o Pinus taeda apresentam estabilidade média baixa (2,1 a 2,5). As correlações entre as propriedades propostas não se apresentaram fortemente correlacionadas, provavelmente em virtude da presença de resina e extrativos, os quais alteraram a massa específica, inibindo a contração.

Many researchs have been done focusing on the wood quality of teak (Tectona grandis L.f.) especially at the various age and different locations. This research analyzed different planting distance (3x3) m2 and (2x6) m2 from clones; Cepu and Madiun cloned. Oven-dried density, fiber dimension, microfibril angle and modulus of elasticity were determined to asses the wood quality. The results showed that the wood quality of teak from spacing (3x3) m2 were better than (2x6) m2, although diameter and growth rate were higher in spacing (2x6) m2. However, there were not diffrences of wood quality for both clones.