| Abstract: | Dissections from solid blocks and from microtome sections haveshown that the broad rays of Quercus ilex, Cardwellia sublimis,and Helicia terminalis shrink less radially and more longitudinally(axially) than the intervening tissues. Dried cross-sectionsshow the broad rays projecting from the top and bottom edges,with the other tissues curving inwards. Strips cut with oneside composed of a ray and the other of the intervening tissuescurve on drying, the strip becoming convex on the side of theray. The shrinkage rates of sections vary considerably fromthose of solid wood, but the comparison of one tissue with anothergave similar results whichever method was adopted. |
