Common uses and applications
Aspen is the most common species used for oriented strand board (OSB) and can be used to produce high-quality laminated veneer lumber (LVL) for headers, joists, beams and planks. It can be sawn into studs for construction lumber under National Lumber Grades Authority rules, and there is interest in producing it for millwork.
Indigenous peoples have many uses for aspen, including medicine, food and a source of poles, canoe paddles and bowls. Aspen bark contains salicylates, the original basis for aspirin. Lye made from aspen ashes and animal fat is turned into soap and used to prepare moose hides.
Trembling aspen is often grouped with black cottonwood (Populus balsamifera ssp. trichocarpa) and balsam poplar (Populus balsamifera ssp. balsamifera)—two varieties of the same species. Balsam poplar is used for pulp and construction, and black cottonwood is used to make tissues and other paper products.
Laminated veneer lumber (LVL) manufacturing Brisco Manufacturing. Brisco, British Columbia.