Resumos

This study aimed to evaluate the moisture performance of temperate-climate wood species exposed to weathering in a tropical climate. Notched and unnotched specimens of Picea abies, Pinus sylvestris, Fagus sylvatica, and Robinia pseudoacacia were exposed to weathering under tropical climate conditions (Aw, tropical with dry winter) in Jerônimo Monteiro, Espírito Santo, Brazil, from March 20, 2023, to March 19, 2024. During the first three months, wood moisture was monitored twice a week, with a minimum interval of two days. From the fourth month onward, measurements were taken every four weeks. At the end of the test, moisture content was determined using the gravimetric method. Wood moisture varied monthly among the analyzed species. The sapwood of P. sylvestris exhibited the highest moisture content, while R. pseudoacacia showed the lowest variation. Comparing specimens with and without notches, it was observed that notching did not significantly affect the moisture content of P. abies, the sapwood of P. sylvestris, or R. pseudoacacia. However, for the heartwood of P. sylvestris, unnotched wood had twice the moisture content of notched wood. In practice, this effect of notching can influence the permeability of wood and should be considered in structural and finishing applications