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What is European walnut wood?
European walnut, also known as noyer d'Europe, is a valued type of wood primarily used for interior design and furniture production. The wood features a varied grain pattern, a moderately fine texture, and a gray-brown color with beautiful veining. The sapwood is whitish, and the transition to the heartwood is clearly visible.
Origin and Botanical Information
European walnut comes from the European walnut tree (Juglans regia L.), which belongs to the Juglandaceae family. These trees are native to Central and Southern Europe.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Botanical name | Juglans regia L. |
| Origin | Central and Southern Europe, originally from Asia and Greece |
| Introduction to Great Britain | 1400s |
Appearance and Structure
European walnut has a unique and attractive appearance:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Heartwood color | Veined gray-brown |
| Sapwood color | Whitish |
| Grain | Sometimes wavy, varied, and irregular |
| Texture | Moderately fine |
| Pattern | Varied, often with swirls and knots |
The grain pattern of European walnut tends to be varied and irregular, often featuring swirls and knots reminiscent of the wild, knotted trees described in JRR Tolkien's Fangorn Forest or Vergil's odes to the Etruscan lands.
Durability
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Durability class (heartwood) | III (moderately durable) |
| Durability class (sapwood) | V (not durable) |
For certain applications, a preventive treatment according to procedure A1 may be necessary.
Processing and Drying
| Process | Description |
|---|---|
| Processing | Easy to work with hand and machine |
| Drying | Relatively slow |
| Finishing | Good finishing possible |
Working with it requires a bit more concentration due to the characteristic swirls that cause the grain to run in all directions, but this also contributes to the beauty of the wood.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Average density | 640-650 kg/m³ |
| Modulus of elasticity | 11,000 N/mm² (10.81 GPa) |
| Janka hardness | 5,410 N (1,220 lbf) |
| Modulus of rupture | 111.5 MPa (16,160 lbf/in2) |
| Compressive strength | 50.2 MPa (7,280 lbf/in2) |
| Shrinkage (Radial) | 5.5% |
| Shrinkage (Tangential) | 7.5% |
| Shrinkage (Volumetric) | 13.0% |
| T/R Ratio | 1.4 |
Applications
European walnut is suitable for a wide range of applications, including:
- Diverse interior carpentry such as stairs, parquet, and interior design
- Furniture
- Veneer
- Small objects
- Gunstocks
- Turning and carving
Unlike many other hardwoods, the knots, forks, and stumps of walnut contribute to its appeal. The mottled effect is often the main attraction of decorative veneer. Walnut roots are particularly valued for gunstocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the properties of European walnut?
European walnut features a varied grain pattern, moderately fine texture, and gray-brown color with beautiful veining. It is relatively easy to work with, has a good strength-to-weight ratio, and is moderately durable.
What is the difference between walnut and European walnut?
The term 'walnut' can refer to different species, including Black walnut (American) and European walnut. European walnut is generally lighter in color and has a more varied grain pattern than American walnut.
What are the characteristics of walnut?
Walnut is characterized by its varied and irregular grain, often with swirls and knots. It has a moderately fine texture, is relatively easy to work with, and has an attractive gray-brown to chocolate-brown color.
Is European walnut expensive?
European walnut is considered a premium type of wood and is therefore relatively expensive compared to some other hardwoods. The price can vary depending on quality, origin, and availability.
Interesting Facts
- The walnut tree was introduced to Great Britain in the 15th century, with most supplies coming from France.
- European walnut is lighter in color than American or Black walnut.
- The tree roots of the walnut are particularly sought after for making gunstocks.
- The wood has a semi-porous end grain, contributing to its unique appearance.
- Walnut is often used in high-end furniture and interior finishing due to its rich look.
Conclusion
European walnut is a versatile and aesthetically appealing type of wood that is easy to work with and responds well to finishes. It is ideal for interior design and furniture production, offering a durable option for decorative and functional applications. The unique combination of color, grain pattern, and workability makes it a lasting favorite among woodworkers and furniture makers.