Preliminary study of Acacia dealbata logs for use in construction: Visual characterization and non-destructive testing

This study provides a preliminary mechanical characterization of minimally processed Acacia dealbata logs to assess their potential valorisation as a by-product of invasive species management. A total of 45 logs (90–143 mm diameter) from two harvest seasons groups, spring (17 logs, 2.0 m) and winter (28 logs, 2.4 m), were visually selected and evaluated for dynamic modulus of elasticity using longitudinal stress wave and transverse vibration tests. Testing was conducted in two moisture content states: air-dried (> 12%) and kiln-dried (≈ 12%). Significant differences between the two groups necessitated separate analyses and suggested a relationship between harvesting season and physical-mechanical properties. Although dynamic properties increased post-kiln drying, initial dynamic modulus of elasticity values were lower due to elevated initial moisture content. Visual characteristics exhibited weak correlations with dynamic properties, whereas high correlations were observed between adjusted dynamic modulus of elasticity values for both moisture states (r > 0,90 for longitudinal stress wave; r > 0,70 for transverse vibration). Adjusted dynamic modulus of elasticity values (18,29/14,00 GPa for longitudinal stress wave; 16,32/12,69 GPa for transverse vibration) were comparable to prior studies and support a potential classification of Acacia dealbata (mimosa) logs for structural applications.