Analysis of physical and mechanical properties of glued laminated timber elements produced from eucalyptus residues

The objective of this study was to develop a type of glued laminated timber (Glulam) element from solid eucalyptus wood residues. The hybrid wood Eucalyptus urophylla x Eucalyptus grandis was used and characterized regarding its physical and mechanical properties to determine density, moisture content and dimensional stability. Glulam elements were manufactured from whole blades and residues, glued with resorcinol-formaldehyde adhesive and polyurethane. Non-destructive tests of free transverse vibration, longitudinal vibration and stress wave were conducted in Glulam elements, plus tests of compressive strength, parallel compressive strength, and shear strength in wood and glue joints under two moisture conditions (dry and saturated). Wood residues of the E. urophylla x E. grandis hybrid have good physical and mechanical properties that allow its use for the manufacture of Glulam elements. Adhesives showed high resistance when tested in dry condition but performed differently in saturated condition. The type of adhesive used did not differ in the resistance of Glulam. Glulam elements with residues showed satisfying results when compared to elements with whole blades, demonstrating that small pieces are useful for manufacture.