Formation of density and porosity of pine wood in a tree trunk

Abstract

Wood is a material with unique properties that contribute to its wide use as a raw material for various types of industries. Different quality requirements are imposed on the raw materialdepending on the material or wood product. However, physical and mechanical properties of wood are not homogenousalong the radius and height of the trunk and depend on the species, location in the trunk and growing conditions. The aim of this research is to study the variability of porosity and density of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) wood in a tree trunk growing in dry forests of the forest-steppe zone of the Russian Federation. The studies were carried out on wood cuts, sawn at different trunk heights. The change in the density of pine wood along the height of the trunk by 1.43% for each meter has been established. The wood porosity increases from the butt to the top by an average of 5.5%. New information about the variability of wood properties makes it possible to rationally and reasonably approach the choice of raw materials for obtaining materials with specified performance characteristics.