Wood Variation and Wood Properties

Abstract

Wood, a most useful substance, varies greatly. Wood properties are changing throughout the world (Zobel et al 1983) and the magnitude and causes of the changes must be known. The importance of wood properties to the final product is becoming better known; one example is the relationship of the morphology of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) tracheids and the paper made from them, as discussed by Barefoot et al. (1970). The subject of cell morphology and usefulness for the final product was covered in a general way by Keating (1983). Before the causes and control of wood variation are discussed, it is necessary to know just what wood is.