FLEXURAL PROPERTIES OF AÇAÍ PALM WOOD: A POTENTIAL RESOURCE FOR AMAZON TRADITIONAL PEOPLE

Abstract

Açaí berry is the main product from Euterpe oleracea, a palm tree largely found in the Amazon forest. The management of açaí areas involves the selective thinning of stems, a waste that accumulates in the area without any use. We aimed to assess the flexural properties of the peripheral zone of E. oleracea stems and their relationships with density and anatomical features. Açaí palm wood has properties similar to Amazon timbers, such as Hymenaea courbaril and shows strong correlation of density and fibre percentage with flexural properties. Euterpe oleracea palm wood has percentage of fibre tissue (46.99%) and bundle diameter (0.83 mm) similar to Cocos nucifera, but density (0.95 g cm- 3) and flexural properties (strength = 151.6 MPa, stiffness = 16.89 GPa) superior to other palm woods, such as C. nucifera and Elaeis guineensis. Due to the stem peripheral zone thickness, açaí palm wood has the same limitations as bamboos have and, thus, can be used as a local substitute for imported bamboo products. According to its properties, açaí palm wood can be used for handicrafts, doors, frames, furniture, and structural purposes. By aligning with the ecological and social sustainability trend seen in our society, açaí palm wood products can generate deluxe items with high added value and serve as an additional income source for traditional Amazon people dependent on açaí berry management.