IMPACT RESISTANCE OF Platanus x acerifolia WOOD

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact resistance of Platanus x acerifolia wood tested under balance conditions at 12% moisture and saturated. Thus, trees from two different physiographic regions in the state of Rio Grande do Sul were used. The samples were submitted to the impact using a CHARPY pendulum and evaluated for its resistance offered by the application of load at radial, tangential and withdrawal positions (pith - bark) for the two physiographic regions in each condition of moisture, according to NF B51-009 (AFN, 1942) Standard. To help to interpret data, the apparent density at 12% and saturated, moisture content, work absorbed, coefficient of resilience and dynamic quota were determined. Thus it could be verified by the results that the wood of Platanus x acerifolia is more resistant to impacts when saturated (FSP) than at the condition of 12% moisture content. However, the results suggest that this wood is not recommended for uses which depend on its ability to absorb and dissipate energy.