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Cross-laminated timber (CLT) has become a popular engineered wood product due to its innovative properties and rapid development, which involves the use of various wood species and adhesives. This study aimed to assess the effect of glue application on the bonding strength, delamination, and wood failure of CLT made from jabon wood and bonded with a cold-setting melamine-based adhesive at three different rates: 250, 280, and 300 g/m2. The adhesive was composed of melamine–formaldehyde (MF) by adding 5% citric acid, 3% polymeric 4,4-methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (pMDI), and 10% wheat flour. Adding these ingredients increased the adhesive viscosity and decreased the gelation time. The CLT samples, made using cold pressing in the melamine-based adhesive at a pressure of 1.0 MPa for 2 h, were evaluated as per the standard EN 16531:2021. The results revealed that a higher glue spread resulted in a greater bonding strength, lower delamination, and a higher wood failure. The glue spread was shown to have a more significant influence on wood failure compared with delamination and the bonding strength. The application of 300 g/m2 glue spread (MF-1) on the jabon CLT led to a product that met the standard requirements. The use of modified MF in cold-setting adhesive produced a potential product that could be a feasible option for future CLT production in terms of its lower heat energy consumption.

A tree may receive compression and flexure combination, and the structural analysis governed by the building code may be capable of estimating the tree’s safety in the built environment. This study proposed to refer to the building code to check the tree dimension adequacy resisting the load. This study simplified the case by focusing only on the self-weight and ignoring the external loads; therefore, the buckling analysis of a slender tapered round column subjected to compression is advocated. Buckling occurs when the tree’s structure can no longer maintain its original shape. Euler and Ylinen’s buckling stress analysis (Method 1) calculated tree safety with a 95% confidence level. This study also applied the Greenhill formula (Method 2) to determine the critical height of a tree receiving the stem weight, then modified it to include the crown weight (Method 3). The three methods calculated the critical height to determine the safety factor (Sf), that is, the ratio of the actual tree height (H) to the 95% confidence level estimated critical height (Hcr). The safety factors were then categorized as unsafe (Sf < 1.00), safe (1.00 < Sf < 1.645), and very safe (1.645 < Sf). This study demonstrated that Method 1 is the most reliable and applicable among other methods. Method 1 resulted in no unsafe trees, 10 safe trees, and 13 very safe trees among the observed excurrent agathis (Agathis dammara). Meanwhile, among the decurrent rain trees (Samanea saman (Jacq.) Merr), 5, 31, and 14 were unsafe, safe, and very safe, respectively.

Tree pruning provides various benefit but also a source of multiple types of tree damage due to unskilled pruning practices. Cohen's vandalism typology state that persons who have similar characteristics to those present in poorly skilled work (i.e., unintentional act; maintenance equipment damaging a tree structure) perform "vandalism". This study aims to explore the relationship between unintentional vandalism and unskilled pruning practices in tree maintenance by analysing qualitative and quantitative data from the tree workers contracted by selected Malaysian local authorities and tree care experts. Results showed that insufficient tree pruning knowledge leads to unintentional vandalism in tree pruning practices.

Indonesia is an agricultural country, and most of its territory is in the form of villages that have the potential to be developed as rural tourism centers. One area that has the potential to be developed into rural tourism centers is Panjalu, Indonesia. However, the sustainable development of rural tourism in Panjalu, Indonesia, still needs to be improved, so the community cannot enjoy the benefits of this rural tourism. This study aimed to analyze the sustainability strategy of rural tourism development in Panjalu, Ciamis, Indonesia. This study combined two methods, consisting of the Multi-Dimensional Scaling (MDS) and the Analytic Network Process (ANP). The MDS results show that rural tourism sustainability in Panjalu, Indonesia is included in the sufficient category, with a sustainability index of 57,998; 66,278; and 51,862, for ecological, socio-cultural and economic criteria, respectively. The MDS also analyzes which attributes are sensitive to the sustainability status. The most sensitive attributes for each criterion include Biodiversity for ecological criteria (RMS 2.224), Local Community Involvement for the social-culture criteria (1.147), and Livelihood Diversification for the economic criteria (1.245). These most sensitive attributes are, then, used as a reference for developing sustainable rural tourism development strategies. As a result, the strategic priority ranking for rural tourism in Panjalu, Indonesia is rural tourism based on culture and community development.

The inner part of gewang (Corypha utan Lam.) trunk has significantly lower physical-mechanical properties as well as biodeterioration resistance, compared to outer parts. This study investigated a method for improving the physical-mechanical properties and biodeterioration resistance of glued laminated lumber made from the inner part of gewang trunk (GLIT). The effects of pretreating the lamina with densification and exposing the GLIT to smoking process were investigated. The seven layers of GLIT samples were bonded with isocyanate adhesive at a glue spread of 280 g/m2, then smoked for 15 days. Solid lumber pieces made from the inner part as well as the outer part of GLIT were also prepared for comparative purposes. Physical and mechanical properties of the lumber samples were tested according to Japanese agricultural standards. Meanwhile, dry-wood termite and wood decaying fungi resistances of the lumber samples were determined according to Indonesian standard. Results showed that overall physical-mechanical properties as well as dry-wood termite and decay resistances of densified-smoked GLIT were enhanced significantly. Pretreating of lamina and post-production smoking can be considered as a potential method to improve physical-mechanical properties and biodeterioration resistance of the GLIT.

The successful isolation of DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is essential for the investigation process of forestry molecular genetics. Samples used are usually retrieved either from soft or juvenile plant organs because of their excellent DNA source. However, in certain cases, aforesaid samples are hard to obtain, as for forensic purposes. Alternatively, woods possess potential as alternative source of DNA whose extraction method has been developed with varying degrees of success. However, to date, effectiveness on tropical wood grown in Indonesia has not been widely reported. Therefore, objective of this study was to compare the results of DNA isolation of various dried and fresh wood samples by using two isolation methods: Cetyl Trimethyl Ammonium Bromide (CTAB) and Qiagen DNeasy Plant Mini Kit (QDPMK). Extraction results were visualized in agarose gels and quantified using Nanophotometer NP80 Implen which were then amplified using two universal primers: ITS and rbcL for detecting DNA signals. Extraction results from dried wood indicated no visualization in the gel, while fresh wood samples showed thick smeared bands on both extraction methods. Quantity test results denoted higher concentration in CTAB-extracted samples compared to samples extracted using QDPMK, in both types of samples, even though both resulted in optical density ratios outside the range of purity (λ260/280: 1,8–2,0 and λ260/230: 2,0, respectively). Success rates of ITS and rbcL primary amplification in dried wood samples were quite low yet outputs from the two methods did not differ significantly. Meanwhile, outcome of ITS and rbcL amplification on fresh wood samples had a fairly high success.

The authors have recently investigated the chemical components and bioactivity of fungus comb from Macrotermes gilvus Hagen mounds. The ethyl acetate, methanol, and water extracts of the fungus comb contained active compounds which are preventing the growth of Aspergillus foeti-dus, one of the most economically important wood-staining fungi in Indonesia. In this present study, the bioactivity of the fungus comb extracts was examined against the white-rot fungus Schizophyllum commune Fr. For the purpose of generating a realistic in-service type of environment, the extracts were evaluated according to modified EN-113 after impregnated into wood samples by the vacuum-pressure method, following in-vitro antimicrobial susceptibility test. The results showed that ethyl acetate extract at concentrations ranging from 2 to 6% and methanol extract at a concentration of 6% presented high bioactivity against S. commune. This result was established through optical microscopy images, which demonstrated the absence of fungal mycelia in the vessels of wood samples treated with EtOAc extract at concentrations of 2%, 4%, and 6%, as well as MeOH extract with a concentration of 6%. The toxic values of the ethyl acetate and methanol extracts were determined to be 6.17% and 7.72%, respectively. Based on UPLC-HRMS analysis, azelaic acid, and erucamide were discovered as the dominant components in ethyl acetate extracts, which are anticipated to be the most active compounds. It appears that ethyl acetate extract, as well as methanol extract, can be considered as novel preservative sources for controlling wood-decaying fungi.

The pin-penetration device is a minimally destructive instrument that is widely used to estimate the physical properties of wood, e.g., density, with advantages such as reduced testing times, low costs, and fewer defects induced in the wood being tested. In this study, such a device was used on 25 Indonesian hardwood species with a strength class (SC) distribution from SC II to IV (according to the Indonesian classification of wood SCs). Tests were conducted on three different orthogonal planes, i.e., cross-sectional, radial, and tangential planes. The wood density ranged from 0.28 to 0.88 g/cm3, and the specific gravity was 0.25 to 0.76. The cross-sectional plane penetration depth of the wood was significantly greater than that of either the radial or tangential plane, whereas the pin penetration values of the radial and tangential planes were not significantly different. A prediction model for predicting the density and specific gravity of wood via pin penetration showed a significant regression. Thus, the use of a pin-penetration device was found to be suitable for estimating wood density and specific gravity in a range of SCs of tropical wood species regardless of species.

Jabon (Anthocephalus cadamba) is a fast-growing wood with low quality due to its low density and strength. The quality can be increased by modifying the wood through impregnation with various chemical compounds. In this study, jabon was impregnated with a solution of Fe and immersed in a strong base (NaOH) or a weak base (NH4OH) to form magnetite (Fe3O4) in-situ. This study analysed the use of NaOH and NH4OH in synthesising magnetic jabon wood and evaluated the wood’s characteristics. The impregnation process began with a vacuum of −0.5 bar for 0.5 h and then a pressure of 1 bar for 2 h. The samples subsequently underwent assessment of their dimensional stability, density, and characteristics. The results showed that impregnation with Fe solution followed by NaOH or NH4OH significantly affected the density and dimensional stability of the wood. The polymer weight gain was higher with NaOH, while the anti-swelling efficiency was higher with NH4OH. The density and bulking effect were increased, but the water uptake was decreased. Fourier transform infrared analysis showed the successful synthesis of magnetite. Scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis revealed that magnetite covered the vessel fibre cell walls, and vibrating sample magnetometry analysis showed significant magnetic properties of the wood.

The root system is important for supporting tree growth and stability. In this study, we analyzed the relationship between the main lateral root distribution pattern and vertical tree growth direction based on root detection and analysis of tree morphometry. Tree growth represented by morphometric data were measured directly, and the root distribution was identified using a sonic Root Detector. Sixteen targeted trees (eight Samanea saman and eight Delonix regia trees) in an urban area landscape were selected in this study. The Root Detector revealed that the average sonic velocity of lateral roots was 676.88 m∙s−1 for S. saman and 865.32 m∙s−1 for D. regia. For root distribution, Root Detector determined the average numbers of main lateral roots for S. saman and D. regia, which were 6 and 10, respectively. Based on correlation analysis, significant relationships were found between tree root sonic velocity and the degree of lean, height, and diameter of the tree; meanwhile the relationship between crown diameter and slenderness were not significant. Findings confirmed that, in relation to the root distribution and the growth direction of the trunk and crown, the lateral root is mainly distributed in the opposite direction of the tree lean rather than crown growth direction.

The embodiment of antimicrobial components into the food packaging material has the ability to prevent microbial contamination. Fungus comb could be an alternative source of natural antimicrobial agents. In this study, n-hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol, and water extracts from fungus comb isolated from Indo-malayan termite Macrotermes gilvus Hagen mound were analysed for its antibacterial and antifungal activities against food spoilage microorganisms, including Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Aspergillus flavus, and Aspergillus niger. The antimicrobial activity of the fungus comb extracts was evaluated using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion and microdilution method. The result showed that ethyl acetate extract exhibited the biggest diameter inhibition zone for all bacteria and fungi tested. Ethyl acetate extract showed antibacterial activity in all bacteria with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values of 0.39 mg/mL and 0.78 mg/mL, respectively. This extract also inhibited A. flavus and A. niger with MIC value of 0.78 mg/ml. Ethyl acetate extract contained guaiacol and syringol, which were predicted as the main antimicrobial components in fungus comb. Whereas n-hexane extract only inhibited Gram-positive bacteria. S. aureus ATCC 25923 was the most sensitive bacteria tested using all extracts. In addition, A. flavus was more sensitive compared to A. niger. Overall, fungus comb extract exhibited antimicrobial activity against E.coli ATCC 25922, P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853, S. aureus ATCC 25923, A. flavus, and A. niger. This study revealed that the fungus comb extract, especially ethyl acetate, could be considered as a new antimicrobial agent.

Rain tree (Samanea saman) is a dominant species commonly planted as a shade tree in urban landscapes in the tropics, including in Indonesia. This species is also targeted for routine inspection and monitoring within tree management systems. Management should particularly focus on tree health through assessment of tree growth conditions as well as tree stability. However, baseline information on the relationships of many key characteristics for the rain tree (e.g., growth, morphometrics, and biomechanics) is lacking. Therefore, an investigation was carried out to determine the relationship of morphometric parameters to tree growth, which included use of an acoustic tool to assess the elasticity of the tree stem. Fifty rain trees were selected for data collection and evaluated using stress wave velocity tools and visual morphometrics assessment. The results demonstrated that, in general, the trees had good vigor and stability. Statistical analysis showed a strong relationship between tree growth parameters and selected morphometric characteristics. The use of a nondestructive acoustic-based instrument enabled determining the modulus of elasticity, which provided equivalent results with the elasticity value obtained through a common method for determining tree stability. Only live crown ratio and tree slenderness parameters had a relationship with the dynamic modulus of elasticity. These results offer a means of measurement that is simpler, less expensive, and faster than current methods, although further testing is needed for different tree species and growth sites.

Recently, the architectural and physical properties of the fungus comb from subterranean termite Macrotermes gilvus Hagen (Isoptera: Termitidae) mounds had been studied and it is important to determine its chemical profile as well as to evaluate its anti-staining-fungi activity. The results showed that fungus comb of M. gilvus has a high crude ash (30.57%), fiber (25.46%), starch (7.76%), protein (5.80%, 5.53% amino acid), acid-insoluble ash (3.45%), and fat (0.73%). It also contained phenol hydroquinone, steroids, terpenoids, and saponin compounds. Seventeen amino acids were identified via high-performance liquid chromatography analysis, of which arginine, leucine, glutamate, and aspartic acid were the majority. According to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis, the n-hexane extract consists of several types of fatty acid derivatives. Meanwhile, the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extracts were primarily phenol groups with 1,2,3-propanetriol (glycerol) at the highest relative concentration. Four fungus-comb extracts (n-hexane, EtOAc, MeOH, and water) inhibited the Aspergillus foetidus fungus, with inhibition rates ranging from 24.17% to 100% and EtOAc extract as the most active extract. It appears that EtOAc extracts from the M. gilvus fungus comb can be considered an active ingredient source of novel organic fungicide in preventing wood-staining fungi attacks on susceptible wood.

The potentials of bamboo resources owned by the community in Ngada Regency has not been managed and appropriately utilized. There were no integrated programs between the on-farm and off-farm sectors and no clear roles and responsibilities among the stakeholders involved. Soft System Methodology (SSM) framework approach was carried out through stakeholder analysis, CATWOE analysis, and gap analysis. The root definition of the current situation was that the model of sustainable community bamboo management and utilization (W) is responsible to the local and central government as well as the bamboo manufacturing industry as off-taker (O) with integrated supporting programs and regulations, ensuring the potential of bamboo resources and the bamboo product market (E) which was carried out together with stakeholders (A) through active participation and synergy programs (T) to improve the welfare of the community of bamboo owners, craftsmen, and bamboo entrepreneurs (C). The study produces a suitable and appropriate strategy based on the corrective actions of existing problems and recommendations formulated from conceptual models and existing actual conditions on integrated sustainable bamboo management.

The reduced of clean water availability is a problem in almost all parts of the world. This condition is caused by many factors such as population growth, industrialization, urbanization, transportation, etc. The same thing happened in Bangka Island. Based on the research conducted by Hambali (2013) the water balance in Pangkal Pinang was in poor condition (>100%) with a water balance value of 388.13% in 2013, 454% in 2018 and 531.04% in 2023. As the condition of the reduced of clean water availability, especially in Bangka Island, it is necessary to have alternative in providing clean water from other sources as an effort to conserve water to maintain the availability of clean water. One of the water conservation efforts that can be done to maintain the availability of clean water is by using rain harvesting technique. Rainfall source in Bangka Island is possible at reservoir(kulong/embung) of tin mining that has been done. By using the Interpretative Structural Modeling method, it is possible to obtain factor element, institutional element and actor element in sustainable water availability with reservoir technique in Bangka Island. Three key elements were found, namely institutional, social and environmental. Furthermore, the three main institutional elements were 1) regulatory context. 2) trust in community development and 3) positive relation with the community. Meanwhile, the 3 key actors were 1) Technical institution/unit. 2) Financial Institution and 3) Department of Public Works and Housing

Perlakuan panas merupakan salah satu metode yang dapat meningkatkan kualitas kayu termasuk untuk kayu cepat tumbuh. Namun perlakuan tersebut dapat menyebabkan cacat pengeringan serta perubahan sifat pemesinan setelah perlakuan panas. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengevaluasi pengaruh variasi jenis kayu dan waktu pemanasan terhadap adanya cacat pengeringan dan pemesinan kayu cepat tumbuh. Jenis kayu cepat tumbuh yang digunakan adalah jati, mangium, jabon dan sengon. Perlakuan panas dilakukan pada suhu 165oC dengan variasi waktu 0 jam (kontrol), 2 jam dan 6 jam. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kadar air dan kerapatan kayu menurun setelah perlakuan panas. Perlakuan panas berhasil menurunkan kadar air 57% dan menyebabkan penurunan kerapatan kayu hingga 20% dibandingkan dengan kayu kontrolnya. Cacat pengeringan retak ujung pada jati, mangium, jabon dan sengon meningkat setelah perlakuan panas selama 2 dan 6 jam. Di sisi lain, cacat retak permukaan pada jati, mangium, sengon dan jabon berkurang. Cacat setelah menerapkan kegiatan pemesinan yaitu cacat pengamplasan, penyerutan, pembentukan, dan pengeboran menurun pada jati, mangium, jabon dan sengon setelah perlakuan panas 2 dan 6 jam. Jati adalah spesies kayu terbaik dalam hal kualitas pemesinan setelah perlakuan panas diikuti oleh jabon, mangium, dan sengon. Pada suhu 165°C dalam 2 jam dianggap sebagai waktu yang tepat untuk perlakuan panas dalam hal memperoleh cacat minimal pengeringan dan pemesinan.

Meningkatnya penggunaan energi terbarukan yang bersumber dari biomassa kayu sudah seharusnya dipenuhi melalui pengembangan hutan tanaman energi. Penelitian ini bertujuan menganalisis potensi lahan kritis untuk pengembangan hutan tanaman energi di Kabupaten Lombok Timur. Tingkat kesesuaian lahan kritis yang tersedia dianalisis berdasarkan 20 kriteria menggunakan metode fuzzy linguistic ordered weighted averaging (FLOWA) berbasis sistem informasi geografis (SIG). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan dari 52.623 ha lahan kritis di Lombok Timur, luasan yang tersedia untuk pengembangan hutan tanaman energi adalah 8.422 ha. Pada skenario sangat optimis, keseluruhan lahan kritis tersedia tersebut sangat sesuai untuk dikembangkan. Sebaliknya pada skenario sangat pesimis, 70% luas lahan kritis tersebut kurang sesuai untuk dikembangkan, sedangkan sisanya tidak sesuai. Pada skenario netral, 6.416,9 ha atau 76% dari lahan kritis yang tersedia sangat sesuai untuk dikembangkan, sedangkan sisanya dapat dikategorikan cukup sesuai. Dalam pengembangan hutan tanaman energi, harus diutamakan pada lokasi-lokasi dengan tutupan semak belukar atau lahan terbuka, dengan skema pengembangan disesuaikan dengan status lahannya

A common problem with fast-growing hardwoods is dimensional instability that limits use of their wood. In this study, we investigated the effects of pre-drying methods, temperatures, and heating duration on the specific gravity, water absorption, and dimensional stability of three tropical fast-growing hardwoods, jabon (Neolamarckia cadamba Roxb.), sengon (Falcataria moluccana Miq.), and mangium (Acacia mangium Willd.). Wood samples were pre-dried by two methods (fan and oven at 40 °C), and heat treatments were performed at three temperatures (120, 150, and 180 °C) for two different time periods (2 and 6 hours). The specific gravity, water absorption, dimensional stability, and structural changes of the samples were evaluated. The results revealed that heat treatments slightly reduced the specific gravity of all three wood species. In addition, the heat treatments reduced water absorption and significantly improved dimensional stability of the samples. Oven pre-drying followed by heat treatment at 180 °C for 6 hours resulted in good physical improvement of jabon and sengon wood. Fan pre-drying followed by heat treatment at 180 °C for 2 hours improved the physical properties of mangium wood. The heat treatment shows a promising technique for improving the physical characteristic of fast growing hardwoods.

The pattern of termite infestation was investigated in structural lumber, light Red Meranti (Shorea spp.), using a minimally destructive technique. The relationship between the visual inspection and the pin penetration approach in predicting the basic properties of wood was determined, and a pin penetration distribution value was mapped into a contour map based on the Kriging interpolation technique. Small wood block samples were exposed to reared subterranean termites Coptotermes curvignathus Holmgren (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). The characteristics of termite infestation and the changes in the physical-mechanical properties were investigated. The residual surface area of the samples was evaluated using Pilodyn®. The characteristics of the termite galleries found on small wood block samples were as follows: 1) the termite galleries varied in length, or 2) the galleries consisted of long flat tunnels in a longitudinal direction, clean, not decayed, and contained no soil residue. The weight loss percentage from this study exhibited a similar trend with the pin penetration depth, which was directly proportional to the exposure period. The pin penetration result from Pilodyn® generated distribution map that was represented the conditions and basic mechanical properties of the samples. Pilodyn® can be used a complement for visual inspection in in-situ assessment.

Teak is a famous commercial timber; however, many community forests produce low-quality teak from young trees. This research aimed to investigate the effect of heat treatment on the dimensional sta...

Narendra BH, Widiatmaka, Kusmana C, Karlinasari L, Machfud. 2019. Multi-dimensional rapid appraisal technique for evaluating the sustainability of energy plantation forests in East Lombok District, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 20: 1027-1033. The increased use of woody biomass as a renewable energy source should be supported by development of sustainable energy plantation forest. This study aims to evaluate the sustainability status of energy plantation forest in East Lombok District and to determine the leverage attributes affecting sustainability. The evaluation was carried out using rapid appraisal approach, consisting of multi-dimensional scaling (MDS) analysis to provide sustainability indices for ecological, economic and social dimensions, followed by Monte Carlo simulation to define the validity. Dominant attributes affecting the sustainability were assessed by sensitivity analysis. All analyses were executed using the R software. The evaluation of eight locations generally results in a quite sustainable status for ecological, social, and economic dimensions with the validity index values of 72.73%, 61.07%, and 58.49%, respectively. To maintain or enhance sustainability, some leverage attributes need to be prioritized for policy intervention. In the ecological dimension, increasing species diversity using some potential energy woody species should be prioritized. In the social dimension, optimizing the role and capability of forest farmer groups and their members is needed, while for the economic dimension, government should support the expanding area of energy plantation forest managed by each farmer.

Sample collection activities for a study of population genetics across the natural distribution of targeted tree species require a lot of resources, mainly if repeated field visits are necessary. Conventionally, population genetic studies use good sample material like leaves. In addition, cambium or small pieces of fresh wood can be used to replace leaf samples. Currently, restrictions from the permit regulation have caused only a limited number of samples that can be collected. Therefore, efficient use of samples must be designed to maximize their uses for research. Due to the small amount of successfully sampled materials, hence there are limitations to extend their uses for other analyses and are often sufficient only for genetic analysis. Therefore, innovation in sampling methods using pickering punch (https://www.agroisolab.com/pickering-punch) to collect ebony wood cores in this study is required to cover multi-analyses not only limited to genetics but also for other analyses such as isotopes, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRs), anatomy, and chemical compounds.•Pickering punch is recommended for efficient wood core sample collection from ebony standing trees.•323 wood core samples were successfully collected from 16 natural populations across Celebes (Sulawesi).•Multi-analyses studies on sampled wood cores are possible for ebony wood identification (e.g., species and origin/provenance).

The objective of this study was to evaluate various physical and mechanical properties of experimental particleboard panels made from Asian giant bamboo (Dendrocalamus asper). Single layer panels having a density level of 0.75 g/cm3 from coarse and fine particles were used within the scope of this study. Thickness swelling, water absorption, surface roughness, and wettability characteristics of the samples were tested as physical properties while bending, internal bond strength, and screw withdrawal strength of the panels were considered for their mechanical properties. Resistance of the panels against termite and fungus were also determined. Based on the findings in the work both physical and mechanical properties of the panels made from coarse particles resulted in higher values than those made from fine particles with the exception of their internal bond strength. It appears that using fine particles in the panels enhanced their overall surface quality as well as wettability. Regarding biological deterioration of the samples, those made with coarse particles had better resistance. It seems that giant bamboo as a non-wood lignocellulosic species would have potential to be used as raw material to the manufacture value added particleboard with accepted characteristics.

Kusumawardhani DT, Nandika D, Karlinasari L, Arinana, Batubara I. 2021. Architectural and physical properties of fungus comb from subterranean termite Macrotermes gilvus (Isoptera: Termitidae) mound. Biodiversitas 22: 1627-1634. Subterranean termite Macrotermes gilvus Hagen (Isoptera; Termitidae) is the most widely distributed termite species in Indonesia. This termite species has a unique habit of making fungus comb inside their nest. The fungus comb is a growth substrate for Termitomyces fungi, which provides a nutrient source for the termite. However, there is a lack of scientific information regarding the architecture and physical properties of fungus combs of M. gilvus. A study was conducted to determine the architecture and physical properties of fungus combs of M. gilvus found in Yanlappa Experimental Forest, Bogor, West Java Province, Indonesia. The fungus combs were collected from six of twenty-two nests of M. gilvus found in the rectangular sample plot (150 x 250 m) in the area. The results showed that the fungus comb of M. gilvus was brain-shaped with 44.17 ± 7.36 cm3 in volume and had burrows that interconnected from the surface (6.20 ± 1.06 mm in diameter) to the base of the fungus comb structure (4.32 ± 0.91 mm in diameter). The burrows were interconnected with each other to support cross-ventilation in the fungus comb. White nodules of Termitomyces fungi were found in the fungus comb. Architecturally, the fungus comb consisted of two structural parts, namely fresh comb on the upper part and old comb on the lower part of the fungus comb. The fresh comb possessed a larger volume (48.33 ± 2.89 cm3) and smoother texture (177.88-977.50 nm) than the old comb (40.00 ± 8.66 cm3, 407.49-6762.62 nm). The fresh comb had a larger volume (48.33 ± 2.89 cm3) than the old comb (40.00 ± 8.66 cm3). It was also found a smoother texture in the fresh comb (177.88-977.50 nm) than in the old comb (407.49-6762.62 nm). In terms of color, the fresh comb was darker (reddish) than the old comb (yellowish white). In addition, the density of the old comb was higher (0.87 ± 0.11 g/cm3) than the fresh comb (0.77 ± 0.13 g/cm3) so that the old comb was able to function as a strong foundation for fungus comb.

Bamboo has been part of the history and the socio-cultural and economic or livelihood aspects of Indonesia. Bamboo has been recommended as a potential species that could be utilized for community-based development in the rural part of the country as well as for utilization in various products, from traditional to modern and contemporary processes. However, there is a lack of integrated research on the community’s bamboo for industrial-scale products. This study aimed to determine and assess drivers-barriers to enable the formulation of strategic recommendations aimed at promoting the success of community-based supply of the commodity for the modern bamboo industry in Ngada Regency in Indonesia. The methods were applied by collecting quantitative and qualitative data using literature reviews, questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, and direct field observations. Collected data were analyzed by descriptive analysis and assessing both for internal and external factors of drivers-barriers. Research findings showed that the community proceeds from a traditional mindset with regard bamboo resources and utilization but that the community actually already owned social capital to strengthen and drive modern bamboo utilization. However, there is still a lack of capacity building for bamboo management. This study also provides policymakers with strategic recommendations to develop integrated programs and regulations, support community-based bamboo utilization, improve livelihood, and support rural inclusive economic growth.

Ebony (Diospyros celebica Bakh.) is an endemic plant on Celebes (Sulawesi) island. Extractive compounds within ebony wood cause it to have durability, strength, and beautiful patterns. In this study, we used near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy to discriminate between ebony wood samples, based on their origins at different growth sites on Celebes island, and to develop quantitative models to predict the extractive content of ebony wood. A total of 45 wood meal samples from 11 sites located in West, Central, and South Celebes were collected in this study. NIR spectral data were acquired from hot water and ethanol&ndash, benzene soluble extracts from ebony wood in this study. The extractive content of the ebony was 10.408% and 10.774% based on hot water solubility and treatment with ethanol&ndash, benzene solvent, respectively. Multivariate analysis based on principal component analysis&ndash, discriminant analysis revealed that ebony wood from West Celebes differed from most of the wood from South Celebes, however, it was only slightly different from ebony wood from Central Celebes based on NIR spectra data. These findings were in line with the extractive contents obtained. Partial least square regression models based on wood meal spectra could potentially be used to estimate the hot water and ethanol&ndash, benzene extractive contents from ebony wood.

Adzkia U, Nugroho N, Siregar IZ, Karlinasari L. 2020. Ultrastructure of royal palm (Roystonea regia) leaf sheath. Biodiversitas 21: 967-974. The royal palm (Roystonea regia (Kunth) F.Cook is one of the palm species that are many planted along the streets as part of urban landscapes. As biologically products, in nature they can self-cleaning with drop off their big leaves. The study aims to examine the morphological characteristics of ultrastructure and elemental content, crystallinity, as well as fibers derivation characteristics from the royal palm. The samples were taken out from leaf sheaths that divided into three sections along the width of i.e. outside, middle, and inside; in two conditions of leaf sheaths namely green and brownish-dry. The morphology structure and elemental content were observed by the Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and the Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), while the crystallinity was analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), and fiber characteristics were measured to determine cell dimensions as well as to calculate Runkle ratio (RR), muhlsteph ratio (MR), coefficient of rigidity (CR), felting powder (FP), and flexibility ratio (FR). The diameter of palm fiber bundles was decreased from outside towards inside. The model of vascular tissue was rounded which located in the central region of the fiber bundles. The silicon content in the inside section was lower than those in the middle and outside sections. It was in line with the degree of crystallinity in the inside section which that higher than other sections. The highest degree of crystallinity was about 18 %. The fiber length of royal palm leaf sheath was in values around 6000 μm. However, the royal palm leaf sheath had thick fiber walls and thin lumen, as well as other fiber derivation characteristics of muhlsteph ratio, the coefficient of rigidity and the flexibility ratio, were in low-quality values. For that reason, the study provides information that the royal palm sheath was recommended as a composite reinforcing material.

Anna N, Supriyanto, Karlinasari L, Sudrajat DJ, Siregar IZ. 2020. The growth, pilodyn penetration, and wood properties of 12 Neolamarckia cadamba provenances at 42 months old. Biodiversitas 21: 1091-1100. Jabon (Neolamarckia cadamba (Roxb) Bosser) is a potential tree species for the development of plantation forests and community forests to supply timber demands. Information on the growth characteristics and wood properties of N. cadamba is important for the present and future development, yet. Those data is not available. This study aimed to assess the variations on growth (height, diameter), pilodyn (Pilodyn®) penetration, and physical properties of wood from core sample; and characterize the wood properties of 12 N. cadamba provenances at Parung Panjang, Bogor. The assessment of growth characteristics, pilodyn penetration, and physical properties of wood from core sample was carried out through census (1030 trees) on all provenance (using non-destructive method). The wood properties analysis was carried out using destructive method to one sample for each of the 12 N. cadamba provenances. Growth characteristics observed were the height (numerical scale pole), diameter (calipers), and pilodyn penetration. Meanwhile, the wood properties consisted of wood density, specific gravity, moisture content, fiber length (light microscope), MFA (x-ray diffraction), MOE, and MOR. The results showed that the correlation between the height and moisture content with pilodyn penetration was weak and positive, while the correlation between diameter, wood density, and specific gravity was weak and negative. The result of non-destructive test showed that Gowa provenance is superior. The results of destructive tests to investigate the wood properties of the twelve provenances showed that Batu Licin provenance is superior in terms of specific gravity and MOE, while Gowa provenance is superior in terms of MOR and fiber length. The results of the wood properties (i.e. density, specific gravity, moisture content, MOE, MOR, MFA, and fiber length) of the 12 N. cadamba provenances showed that the woods can be potentially used as non-structural materials only.