Sawing yield estimation of defective logs in Olea europaea L., Robinia pseudoacacia L., and Castanea sativa Mill. species growing in Southern Italy

This study assessed sawmill efficiency for olive (Olea europaea L.), black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.), and chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) logs in Southern Italy evaluating the impacts of taper, ovality, sweep, and fluting defects on sawing yield. Taper was the most significant defect, especially for olive and chestnut logs. Black locust showed stable yields (70%), highlighting its commercial potential. The results of this study demonstrate that the quality and defectiveness of logs—particularly taper and ovality—significantly influence the sawing yield of the investigated species and emphasize the importance of selecting high-quality raw materials to reduce waste and enhance the economic value of Mediterranean hardwoods.