X-rays were initially used for the inspection of special-purpose wood pieces for quantitative evaluation of
wood properties of different species. X-ray densitometry has had its use expanded in dendroclimatology
of Picea engelmannii trees. Subsequent laboratories developed applications of X-ray densitometry
for environmental, wood science and technology, and related areas. This paper describes the basic
methodology of X-ray densitometry applied to the eucalypt wood analysis, as well as presenting the results
of applications in three areas: (i) evaluation of wood biodegradation by white rot fungi, (ii) detection
of sapwood and heartwood, and (iii) determination of the effect of management on wood properties.
The wood decayed by white rot fungi was detected by X-ray densitometry with a decreasing wood
density due to the biodegradation of cell wall components. The sapwood and heartwood of eucalypts
were separated in response to the attenuation of X-rays, refl ected by the wood anatomical structure
and chemical composition. Also, in eucalypt trees after the application of irrigation and fertilizationirrigation
characteristic wood density profi les were detected. In addition, the signifi cant potential of
X-ray densitometry for eucalypt wood research and analysis is discussed.