Massaranduba wood

Extremely hard and durable

Massaranduba is one of the most durable and hardest wood species in the world. This wood originates from Central and South America and is known for its beautiful deep red to reddish-brown color and very fine grain. Due to its immense strength and high density, Massaranduba is an excellent alternative to other hardwoods such as Bankirai or Azobé, especially when a refined appearance is desired.

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Applications of Massaranduba

Massaranduba is one of the most versatile heavyweights in the world of tropical hardwoods. Thanks to its exceptional density (approx. $1100 \text{ kg/m}^3$ ) and its fine, homogeneous structure, this wood species lends itself to projects where other wood species fall short. For architects and structural engineers, Massaranduba offers the necessary mechanical strength for load-bearing elements. In the civil engineering sector, Massaranduba is valued for its resistance to the elements.

High-quality decking and terrace systems: Massaranduba is a favorite for luxury terraces and public walking paths.
Revetments and sheet pile walls: Because the wood is virtually impervious to rot, it is extremely suitable for separating land and water.
Bridge decks and jetties: Massaranduba can withstand enormous point loads. It is often used for bridge deck sections in bicycle and pedestrian bridges where sustainability is paramount.
Street furniture: Park benches and planters made of Massaranduba last for decades without requiring intensive maintenance, which is ideal for municipal projects.
Noise barriers: Due to its high density, the wood has good sound-insulating properties, which is why it is often used in wooden sound barriers along roads.

Unique properties

Wear resistance: The immense hardness ensures that the wood hardly wears down, even with heavy foot traffic and footwear.
Splinter-free: Due to its very fine grain, Massaranduba is less prone to splintering than, for example, Bankirai, which makes it more comfortable for bare feet by swimming pools or on roof terraces.
Stable appearance: Although the wood is hard, it has a subtle grain that creates a sleek, modern look.
Resistance: The wood is naturally resistant to acids and chemicals, which offers advantages in industrial environments.
Natural fire retardation: Thanks to its extremely high density, Massaranduba is naturally very difficult to ignite. Where softwood catches fire quickly, Massaranduba has a much longer “ignition time”. The wood chars slowly on the outside, which protects the core and preserves structural integrity for longer.

Properties of Massaranduba wood

Name	Massaranduba
Growth area	Suriname, Guyanas, Brazil and Central America
Botanical name	Manilkara bidentata
Durability class	1
Usage class	5
Strength class	Classified as D50 (NEN-EN 1912)
Artificially dried	Does not apply
Voluminous mass	(850-)1050(-1200) kg/m3 at 12% moisture content, 1050-1350 kg/m3 (moisture content approx. 30%)
Suitable for	Building structures, both indoors and outdoors. In hydraulic engineering, for lock gates, barrier structures, weirs, jetties, purlins, bridges and bridge decks. Decking parts and garden wood.
To edit	Despite its high density, it is fairly easy to work. Massaranduba finishes well and is easy to smooth.

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Frequently asked questions about Massaranduba

How sustainable is Massaranduba? Massaranduba falls into durability class 1. It is naturally highly resistant to fungi, bacteria, and insects, even upon direct contact with the soil.
Does Massaranduba turn grey quickly? Yes, under the influence of sunlight, the reddish-brown color changes to a uniform silver-gray. This does not affect the quality. The color can be preserved with a special hardwood oil.
Is Massaranduba suitable for decking by a swimming pool? Absolutely. Due to its very dense structure, it absorbs hardly any water and splinters less easily than other hardwoods, provided it is properly installed.
Do I need to pre-drill Massaranduba? Yes, Pre-drilling is strictly necessary. Due to the extreme hardness and density, screws can break without pre-drilling and the wood can split.

Massaranduba is perfect for these applications

We supply tailor-made and ready-made wood solutions to construction, trade, industry and shipbuilding, the carpentry industry, yachts and interior construction. Do you have specific questions or wishes? Get in touch.

Civil engineering constructions

Industrial customisation

Decking and galleries

Residential construction

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Our clients have realised wonderful projects. Do you have a question? Then take a look at our knowledge base or take contact with one of our specialists.

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