Longitudinal gas permeability measurements from eastern white pine, red spruce, and balsam fir

The permeability of wood is an important factor hi drying, in pulping, and in the preservative treatment of wood because it is indicative of the ease with which fluids can be transported into or out of wood. The longitudinal superficial gas permeability of eastern white pine, red spruce, and balsam fir was measured in this study, Within each species the results were compared to determine if significant differences existed among trees, at differing heights within the trees, and between the heartwood and the sapwood of the trees. Overall, the superficial gas permeability was far larger in eastern white pine than in red spruce or balsam fir, probably as a result of its basic structure or the level of resins and other extractives. Among-tree variation had a significant effect on the permeability of balsam fr and red spruce but not on eastern white pine. Heartwood/sapwood permeability differences were significant in eastern white pine and red spruce but not in balsam fr. Height was not a factor with any species tested.