I think you should be veneering and edge banding this job.
Think about your troubles with the bowels and multiply it by 100. It will almost be like the end of a log and trying to get it not to split and crack. We all know that wood moves even with a good finish on it.
I forgot to ask....which way would the grain be running? Will it be cross grain requiring you to glue end grain to end grain or, with the grain which would give you a better glue surface BUT, that would also be the way the wood would want to expand and contract.
This is a tough issue. Do you have time to glue up a couple of small models using both ways of running the grain and do a quick experiment?
I have made a few segmented bowls and vases and have not had a problem but, they are very small in comparison to a table top!
Please keep us posted on your decision and build. I'm sure other people with more experience than me will chime in soon.
Rog
I'll add a couple of pictures of a segmented vase that I did. Maybe it will give you an idea or two. (note the grain direction on the segments)
And the bowl.... (Again, look at the grain direction on the segments)
NO end grain showing on the outside of the bowl anyplace.
I have not had any cracking with either of these projects so far (knock on wood
) But remember, they are stacked and over lapped segments (and small) that won't be on your table.
Rog
Rog