Radial and longitudinal variation of Pinus taeda L. wood basic density in different ages

PALAVRAS-CHAVE Densidade Sentido medula-casca sentido base-topo ABSTRACT: The wood density is one of the parameters that most affect its properties, which makes it knowledge essential for any use indication. However, due to the high variability of this aspect within the tree, its determination shall consider a sampling throughout the stem. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the longitudinal and radial variations of Pinus taeda L. wood density for individuals with different ages. To that end, trees with 8, 14, 18 and 26 years old were cut, and discs with 10, 35, 55 and 75% were removed from the tree total height and another in the height corresponding to the chest height diameter– DBH, taken at a 1.30m. From these, samples were collected in three different positions in the pith-bark direction (next to pith, intermediate and next to bark) to determine the density. A significant density increase was observed for older trees samples. A density reduction from the basis to the top and an increase from the pith to the bark was observed.