MODELING QUALITY OF NORTHERN RED OAK (Quercus rubra L.) WOOD USING FRACTOMETRIC MEASUREMENTS

Core samples taken from a northern red oak tree from three different locations in Serbia were tested using Fractometer 2 and the results were compared to the results obtained with the standard destructive method on the samples of the same trees. The study aimed to determine the connection between semi-destructive measurements conducted using a fractometer and the values of standard measurements of wood properties of this non-native tree species that adapted very well to Serbian climatic conditions. The results show that the values of the investigated properties are in the interval of literature data for this tree species. Statistical analysis showed that radial bending strength cannot be used as a reliable parameter in assessing wood quality, while the relationship between compressive strength and fracture angle and properties of northern red oak wood obtained multiple regression dependence with a coefficient of determination that was in the interval from 0.936 to 0.975. The primary advantage of the obtained models is the ability to predict the quality of wood before cutting trees, which could positively affect the optimal and further exploitation of wood.