Evaluation of the strength of edge-glued panels (EGP) manufactured with tropical woods from Brazil

The study investigated the mechanical performance of edge-glued panels (EGP) fabricated from Amazonian tropical wood species, emphasizing their potential application in value-added wood products. Five native species from sustainably managed areas were selected to evaluate their suitability for industrial use. The panels were manufactured using two types of adhesives, polyvinyl acetate (PVA) and emulsion polymer isocyanate (EPI), and subjected to testing for static flexural, tensile, and shear strength under dry and humid conditions. The results revealed significant variation in panel performance depending on the wood species and adhesive employed. The EPI adhesive demonstrated superior bonding efficiency, particularly in high-humidity environments, underscoring its potential for application in challenging conditions. Panels constructed with Micrandropsis scleroxylon (Piãozinho) presented the highest rupture and tensile strength under dry conditions, indicating a strong mechanical performance. Meanwhile, Hymenolobium pulcherrimum (Angelim-vermelho) demonstrated consistently strong performance across both adhesives, reinforcing its versatility for diverse manufacturing needs. This research underscores the untapped potential of lesser-known Amazonian wood species, traditionally underutilized in industrial processes, to produce high-quality engineered wood products. The findings highlight the feasibility of incorporating these species into the manufacture of EGP panels, offering a sustainable pathway to enhance the economic value of tropical timber resources while supporting ecological conservation initiatives. Furthermore, integrating these materials into the wood industry aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable forest management and biodiversity preservation, reinforcing the critical role of forest science in balancing development and environmental stewardship.