Macroscopic Anatomical Characterization of the Hardwood Marketed in the State of Espirito Santo, Brazil

ABSTRACT

In order to better identify the timber, a careful study of its anatomical structure must be made, since each species has unique and different anatomical structures. The study of wood anatomy is a safe and practical method based on cellular description and aesthetic and organoleptic aspects of timber. To this end, this study was intended to determine the gross anatomical features of the hardwood marketed in the State of Espirito Santo, given the lack of tools available for the identification of commercial timbers. This study was developed through the use of simple tools, such as a knife for smoothing the sample surface and a magnifying glass (10×), according to the specifications of the Pan-American Commission of Technical Standards - COPANT. This research addressed sensory characteristics such as color, brightness, smell, texture, density, shear strength, figure or drawing distinction between heartwood and sapwood, and anatomic features like grain, growth layers, ray, parenchyma and pores.

Keywords:
timber trade; organoleptic characteristics; macroscopic.