A WOOD ANATOMY METHODOLOGY TO IDENTIFY THE MAIN SPECIES USED FOR FRENCH PLYWOOD

摘要

In view of the increasingly diversified supply of species (tropical and local) for the purpose of manufacturing plywood in France, it became apparent that a wood anatomy methodology was needed to identify the main species that make up these panels. Indeed the mechanical properties of plywood panels required for particular uses depend mainly on the species involved (and on the glues). It has become increasingly important to be in a position to identify the species to ensure that plywood is suitable for its intended use. No reliable methodologies had so far been available. Using a collection of reference samples and microscopic sections, and moreover by developing a simple scheme for checking all anatomical structures, a method for identifying the species in every ply of a panel was devised. The method now needs to be supplemented for all available species so that it can be used in all countries.