Enhancing the durability of low durability Eucalyptus plantation species: a review of strategies

Abstract

Eucalyptus species native to Australia have shown excellent growth rates, good physical properties and resistance to diseases. As a result, they are widely planted globally for a variety of uses. One negative aspect of many of these faster growing species is that they have a high percentage of low durability heartwood that resists preservative treatment. In Australia, large plantations of these species were established near the end of the 20 th Century, primarily for paper production. However, shifting priorities have encouraged a re-examination of possible uses for these materials. Shining gum (Eucalyptus nitens) is an important plantation species in Tasmania. Among the possible uses for this species are those requiring enhanced durability. This paper reviews the options for enhancing the durability of Shining gum heartwood for structural and appearance product applications in both interior and exterior exposures.