Astronium Lecointei Ducke – Anacardiaceae
GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS
Heartwood pale pinkish brown to yellowish brown, becoming dark red after exposure to sun light, slightly distinct from the lighter sapwood. Figure with stripes of dark reddish brown to black. Grain wavy or slightly interlocked, texture medium to fine, luster moderate, not distinctive odor and slightly bitter taste.
DENSITY
Heavy wood, with density at 12% moisture content of 930 kg/m^3 and green density of 1200 kg/m^3.
DRYING
Air-dries very well, without defects. Kiln-dries rapidly, with a moderate tendency for pronounced checking, when submitted to the drying schedule3.
WORKABILITY
Easy to sand and bore, very easy to turn and regular to plane. Bad finishing in planning, regular in sanding and excellent in turning and boring. Good to saw, peel into veneer, glue, screw and very good to turn. Previous boring is advisable for nailing. Finishes well and gives a very lustrous surface.
DURABILITY
Very durable. Resistant to insects and dry-wood termites.
USES
Exterior and interior constructions, packaging, doors, fine furniture, tool handles, cabinet work, flooring, musical instruments, decorative objects and others.
