Angelim Pedra

Trade Name: Angelim Pedra

Scientific Name:

Hymenolobium petraeum, Hymenolobium spp.

Common Names in Different Countries:

• United States: Angelim Pedra

• Canada: Angelim Pedra

• United Kingdom: Angelim Pedra

• France: Angélim Pedra

• French Guyana: Angelim Pedra

• Australia: Angelim Pedra

• Japan: アンジェリムペドラ (Anjerimu Pedora)

• Taiwan: 天使佩德拉 (Tiānshǐ pèidé lā)

• China: 天使佩德拉 (Tiānshǐ pèidé lā)

• South Korea: 앤젤림 페드라 (Aenjelrim Pedora)

• Thailand: แองเจลิม เปดรา (Aengjelim Pedrā)

• India: एंजेलिम पेड्रा (Ēnjelim pēḍrā)

• Suriname: Angelim Pedra

• Guyana: Angelim Pedra

• Brazil: Angelim Pedra

• Germany: Angelim Pedra

• Italy: Angelim Pedra

• Portugal: Angelim Pedra

• Peru: Angelim Pedra

• Bolivia: Angelim Pedra

• Panama: Angelim Pedra

Growing Areas:

Angelim Pedra is primarily found in the tropical rainforests of South America, especially in countries like Brazil, Suriname, and Guyana.

Distribution:

This species is widely distributed across the Amazon basin, thriving in the dense, humid lowland tropical forests.

Tree Size:

Angelim Pedra trees typically grow to heights of 100-150 feet (30-45 meters), with trunk diameters of 3-5 feet (1-1.5 meters).

Average Dried Weight:

59 lbs/ft³ (945 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC):

• Basic: 0.77

• 12% MC: 0.94

Janka Hardness:

3,070 lbf (13,650 N)

Modulus of Rupture:

22,750 lbf/in² (157.0 MPa)

Elastic Modulus:

2,720,000 lbf/in² (18.76 GPa)

Crushing Strength:

11,640 lbf/in² (80.3 MPa)

Shrinkage:

• Radial: 4.7%

• Tangential: 7.9%

• Volumetric: 12.5%

• T/R Ratio: 1.7

Additional Information

Color/Appearance:

Angelim Pedra heartwood is yellowish-brown to reddish-brown, often with darker brown streaks. The sapwood is lighter in color, typically pale yellow to light brown, and is distinctly demarcated from the heartwood. The wood tends to darken slightly with age and exposure to light.

Grain/Texture:

The grain of Angelim Pedra is usually interlocked, which can create attractive ribbon-like patterns on quartersawn surfaces. The texture is medium to coarse, with a moderate natural luster.

Rot Resistance:

Angelim Pedra is highly durable and resistant to decay, making it suitable for both interior and exterior applications. It also exhibits good resistance to termite and other insect attacks.

Workability:

Angelim Pedra can be challenging to work with due to its density and interlocked grain, which may cause tearout during machining. It responds well to gluing, and it can be finished to a smooth surface, although it may require pre-drilling for nails and screws to avoid splitting.

Odor:

The wood has a distinctive, somewhat unpleasant odor when freshly cut, which tends to dissipate as the wood dries.

Allergies/Toxicity:

Angelim Pedra has been reported to cause skin irritation and respiratory issues in some individuals. Proper safety measures, such as wearing protective gear and ensuring adequate ventilation, are recommended when working with this wood.

Pricing/Availability:

Angelim Pedra is generally available and moderately priced, especially when compared to other tropical hardwoods with similar properties. It is sold in lumber form and occasionally as veneer.

Sustainability:

Angelim Pedra is not listed on the CITES Appendices and is not currently considered threatened. However, sustainable sourcing practices are essential to ensure the preservation of its natural habitats. Always look for certification from organizations such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure responsible harvesting.

Common Uses:

• Heavy construction (e.g., bridges, docks)

• Flooring

• Decking

• Outdoor furniture

• Railroad ties

• Heavy-duty industrial flooring

• Boatbuilding (keel and frame parts)

• Turned objects

Angelim Pedra's exceptional durability and mechanical properties make it a preferred choice for applications that require strength and longevity, while its unique appearance adds a touch of natural beauty to any project.