Rubberwood

Sample 2

1. RUBBERWOOD

2. Although it had been used on a small scale before, its use for furniture making has become more common recently with the development of chemical treatments to protect the wood against fungal and insect attacks . The earlier practice was to burn the tree at the end of its latex-producing cycle. In the 1980s, the development of chemical treatment processes allowed the wood to be more widely used for furniture making and frames. History

3. Rubberwood is a light-colored medium-density tropical hardwood obtained from the Pará rubber tree ( Hevea brasiliensis ). Rubberwood is " environmentally friendly" wood, as it makes use of plantation trees that have already served a useful function. Nature &Existence

4. Scientific Name:   Hevea brasiliensis Distribution:  Native to Brazil, but extensively cultivated in tropical regions, especially in Asia Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC):  .49, .59 Janka Hardness:  960 lb f  (4,280 N) Modulus of Rupture:  10,420 lb f /in 2  (71.9 MPa ) Elastic Modulus:  1,314,000lb f /in 2  (9.07 GPa ) Crushing Strength:  6,110 lb f /in 2  (42.1 MPa ) Shrinkage:  Radial: 2.3%, Tangential: 5.1%, Volumetric: 7.5%, T/R Ratio: 2.2 Characteristics

5. Besides the standard health risks associated with any type of wood dust, no further health reactions have been associated with Rubberwood in particular. However, individuals with natural latex or rubber allergies may have reactions to Rubberwood. Besides that, Rubberwood is perishable and has very little natural resistance to decay. It is  susceptible to fungal staining and insect attacks. Risk rate

6. This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. And this is due to the fact that Rubberwood lumber is typically taken from rubber plantations where the trees are tapped for latex, and harvested at the end of their useful life cycle—typically after about thirty years. IUCN recommendation

7. Furniture. Cabinetry. I nterior millwork. K itchen woodenware. C utting boards. knife   blocks. Other small, specialty wood items. Common Uses