Paulownia Wood... the Cheaper, Stronger Alternative to Balsa Wood
Balsa has been incorrectly considered to have the highest strength to weight ratios of any wood in the world.
Paulownia has been thoroughly tested and found to have a higher strength to weight ratio than Balsa!
Auburn University tested the strength of 18 lb p/cubic ft. Paulownia against Balsa, with an average weight of 10 lbs p/cubic foot.
(See Table 1)
| Strength modus of rupture mor (psi) | |
| Balsa | 2800 |
| Paulownia | 5740 |
| - Source: Dr. R.C. Tang, Auburn University | |
Some Balsa core material is sliced at 3/8 inch with end-grained material. Paulownia can be cut at 3/16 and offer approximately the same strength and weight. Paulownia offers a space saving benefit, being cut half as thick. There is also a significant cost savings because half as much material is needed.
Lighter grades of Paulownia weigh only 14lbs per cubic foot. This is lighter than many Balsa grades.
When considering the large amount of epoxy that Balsa soaks up, Paulownia gains an even larger weight advantage.
Paulownia is easily carved and can hold nails and screws without splitting. It also provides greater stability and flexibility for making molds and models.
