Rapid Assessment Of The Fundamental Property Variation Of Wood

Abstract

Abstract - Genetic variation, site conditions, silvicultural treatments, seasonal effects, and their complex interaction are all vitally-important factors accounting for the variability and quality of the raw material produced - wood. Quality can be measured in several ways that generally influence the end use. The most desirable measure is the fundamental properties. The physical properties and strength characteristics at selected locations in the bole have been determined for three loblolly pine trees obtained from the Crossett Experimental Forest (Crossett, AR). The range and variation of properties within and between the trees has been summarized in the form of wood property maps. The creation of such property maps via traditional test methods require much time and expense. However, a new rapid assessment technique combining near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy with multivariate statistical techniques to predict these fundamental properties has shown great potential. This paper introduces the application of this developing methodology to wood quality issues by highlighting early results from a larger program that will define the range of properties for southern pine. The results from the standard test methods have been compared with those predicted from NIR spectra/multivariate analysis, and have been shown to provide excellent correlations.

Citation

So, Chi-Leung; Groom, Leslie H.; Rials, Timothy G.; Snell, Rebecca; Kelley, Stephen S.; Meglen, Robert. 2002. Rapid Assessment Of The Fundamental Property Variation Of Wood. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS–48. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. pp 176-180