Distribution of Growth Stresses in Eucalyptus nitens Maiden Logs Immersed in Water

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of water immersion on the release of growth stresses in 17-year-old Eucalyptus nitens logs. A total of 18 of 90 trees evaluated in the field were selected. The average diameter at the height breast of all the trees was 37 cm. The first section of the tree, from the stump to 2.44 m, was used. Three stress levels (low, medium, and high) were established. Six logs were studied for each level, which was divided into two groups: three for control and three for water immersion. Peripheral longitudinal strains on standing trees, freshly felling, and after the immersion process were determined by an extensometer. The deflection of the sawn timber and log-end splitting before and after air-drying were evaluated. In addition, the distribution of growth stresses was determined. The results showed that deflection, the log-end splitting index, and stress distribution were reduced in the three levels. The water immersion method allowed a reduction of growth stresses in Eucalyptus nitens logs.