Assessment and recommendation for the use of species seized in the State of Rondônia

Abstract

Wood is a widely used material whose physical properties directly influence its technological application. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the physical properties of two commercially important forest species in the State of Rondônia: Handroanthus serratifolius (Yellow Ipê) and Bowdichia virgilioides (Sucupira), originating from seizures carried out by the Federal Highway Police Unit in Ji-Paraná and donated to the Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Rondônia (IFRO), Ji-Paraná campus. Basic density, moisture content, shrinkage, and anisotropic factor of the wood were analyzed. For this purpose, 12 test specimens per species were prepared, according to ABNT NBR 7190:2022. The samples were subjected to water saturation, oven drying, and dimensional measurements in the longitudinal, radial, and tangential directions. The results indicated an average basic density of 0.82 g·cm⁻³ for yellow Ipê and 0.89 g·cm⁻³ for Sucupira, classifying both as medium-density woods. The anisotropy coefficients were 1.15 and 1.30, respectively, indicating excellent dimensional stability. Contractions and volumetric shrinkage showed moderate values, consistent with dense tropical woods. Based on these results, it is concluded that both species possess physical properties suitable for more demanding technological applications, being indicated for furniture, flooring, and non-structural building elements, especially in the institutional context of IFRO (Federal Institute of Rondônia). The study reinforces the importance of technological characterization for the rational use of seized timber in the State of Rondônia.