Residue of açaí berry (Euterpe oleracea) management as a source of lignocellulosic material

The management of açaí berry palm trees consists in the maintenance of a few stems per individual, which generates a large amount of waste. This study aimed to assess some mechanical, physical and anatomical properties of the material from the Euterpe oleracea stem considering its dense peripheral zone and low-density center. The compression strength and stiffness, density, size of vascular bundles, proportional area of vascular bundles and fiber length were analyzed. The peripheral zone presented very distinct properties in relation to the center. While the former is considered adequate to be used as a source of lignocellulosic material, the latter is not. The compressive strength of the peripheral zone is equivalent to some commercial Amazon timbers of similar density and higher than bamboo. A linear model confirmed density as a viable property to predict resistance on the peripheral zone. The use of E. oleracea stems can stimulate the adoption of management practices to raise the açaí berry productivity and, together with sustainable practices that contribute to the species conservation, increase the income in the Amazon region, especially for those who depend directly on the açaí fruit production. Some studies are still necessary to understand the applicability of this material, but it has shown potential for the manufacturing of high added value products, such as furniture, frames for paintings, handicrafts and as substitute of imported bamboo products.