Technological Properties of Some Non-Native Hardwood in Mediterranean Area

A growing global demand for wood, coupled with the role of this material in low-carbon strategies, is fuelling interest in fast-growing plantations, including short-rotation forestry (SRF) and agroforestry systems. However, evidence of the physical–mechanical properties and possible uses of non-native hardwoods in the Mediterranean environment remains limited. This study aimed to address this current knowledge gap by evaluating the main physical and mechanical properties of six fast-growing non-native tree species cultivated in experimental plots in Calabria, southern Italy. The wood of Eucalyptus occidentalis Endl., E. × trabutii (M. Vilm. ex Trab.) A. Chev., E. camaldulensis Dehnh., E. bridgesiana R.T.Baker, Melia azedarach L., and Paulownia tomentosa (Thunb.) Steud., were evaluated. The dynamic elastic modulus (MOEd) was estimated on standing trees using stress waves (TreeSonic™). In the laboratory, swelling and shrinkage (ISO 13061-14 and 16), static modulus of elasticity (MOEs) and modulus of rupture (MOR) (EN 408), and compressive strength (ISO 13061-16) were determined. The data were analysed using one-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey’s HSD test where appropriate. Swelling and shrinkage showed no significant differences (p > 0.05). One-way ANOVA revealed a significant effect of species on MOEs (p < 0.001). Both standing-tree stress-wave measurements (MOEd) and laboratory tests (MOEs, MOR, and compression strength) revealed significant variability in stiffness and resistance among the species examined. The positive relationship observed between MOEd and MOEs indicates that stress-wave testing can serve as a practical, rapid tool for ranking plantation material at an early stage, thereby supporting early decision-making in SRF and agroforestry systems. These results provide comparative evidence for species and clonal selection, and to optimise the allocation of plantation resources to targeted value chains in Mediterranean environments.