The Key Factor in Growth Stress Generation in Trees Lignification or Crystallisation?

Abstract

A theory - that growth stress generation is primarily the result of dimensional changes imposed on fibre walls, as a consequence of swelling associated with the lignification process - has become widely known and well supported. However, a more recently published paper claimed that the theory could not be justified. An alternative theory - that growth stress generation was the result of continuing crystallisation of micro fibrils, after their initial formation within the fibre wall- was then promoted.