Balsa wood (cross section) showing large conductive elements (Ochroma pyramidale), coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Ochroma pyramidale is
Balsa wood (cross section) showing large conductive elements (Ochroma pyramidale), coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Ochroma pyramidale is a genus of flowering tree in the family Malvaceae (mallow). Ochroma pyramidale (formerly known as Ochroma lagopus) which is known as the balsa tree. It is a large, fast growing tree that can grow up to 100 feet. Balsa wood is a very lightweight material with many uses. Balsa trees are native to southern Brazil and Bolivia north to southern Mexico. Balsa lumber is very soft and light, with a coarse, open grain. The wood of the living tree has large conductive cells that are filled with water. This gives the wood a spongy texture. It also makes the wood of the living tree not much lighter than water and barely able to float. For commercial production, the wood is kiln-dried for about two weeks, leaving the cells hollow. Magnification: x28 when shortest axis printed at 25 millimetres.
Size: 3335px × 2620px
Photo credit: © DENNIS KUNKEL MICROSCOPY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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