Source
Massaranduba is available in the forests of Precious Woods, located in the Amazon region of Brazil. The large trunk have a straight and cylindrical shape, and attain a maximum diameter of 180 cm, however most of the trunks are much thinner. The trunks contain "balata", which is used as a substitute for rubber in some countries.
Appearance
The heartwood is flesh-colored to reddish brown. It darkens slightly after exposure to reddish or purple brown. The 3-5 cm wide whitish sapwood is easy to distinguish. The grain is straight (sometimes curved or interlocked) and the texture is fine.
Processing properties
Machining goes quite well, with a smooth result despite the high density. The fine sawdust can cause an allergic reaction. Pre-drilling is recommended. With gluing and finishing is limited experience but is reported to be good. The GluGreen® Technology could successfully be applied to green sawn timber. Drying goes slowly with a tendency to check and bend. To avoid checking during air drying, the timber needs to be protected from the weather.
Application
This very strong and durable species is used for a wide spread of applications, like hydraulic constructions, bridges, jetties, sheet piling, stables, boardwalks, piles and garden timber. Massaranduba is a perfect substitute for Bangkirai.
