Wood density, rotary-cut veneer quality, and pulping and papermaking properties of Eucalyptus plantation from different sprout generation

This study evaluated the processing suitability of plantation wood from a seedling stand and three successive sprout generations by measuring basic wood density, assessing rotary-peeled veneer quality, and comparing pulping performance. The results showed that the wood basic density exhibited an overall decreasing trend with increasing sprout generation. The average basic density of the third-generation sprout stand was 13.5% lower than that of the seedling stand. The density variation near the bark was significantly smaller than that near the pith and at the middle. The yield (79.4%-83.2%), thickness (1.75-1.84 mm), and average surface defect rating (3-4) of veneers of sprout-generated stands were comparable to those of the seedling stand, indicating good suitability for rotary peeling. Compared with the seedling stand, the sprout-generated stands exhibited increases of 11.6%-23.0% in fiber length and 11.5%-20.6% in ratio of length to width of fiber, indicating superior fiber morphological properties. The first- and second-generation sprout stands showed better comprehensive papermaking performance than the seedling stand. Overall, although wood density decreased with increasing sprout generation, the impact on major processing suitability was limited.