Detecting Deterioration in ROYAL PALM (ROYSTONEA REGIA) Using ULTRASONIC TOMOGRAPHIC and Resistance Microdrilling techniques

The objective of this study was to evaluate deterioration and defects in royal palm (roystonea regia) using a combination of ultrasonic tomographic and resistance microdrilling techniques. high correlation (r2 = 0.99) existed between the amount of decay detected by ultrasonic tomography and the amount actually present in cross-sections of discs and living palms according to the drill-resistance profile. however, ultrasonic tomograms underestimated the internal deterioration of royal palms. when defects occurred in the periphery of the trunk, ultrasonic tomography overestimated the area of deterioration. therefore, detection of the location and determination of area of deterioration need to be improved. a combination of ultrasonic tomography and resistance microdrilling could accurately detect the general location and area of deterioration.