Teak Research Articles

From waste to watts: Investigating teak biomass waste for bioenergy

The appropriate use of forest biomass can support the transition to a society with clean and renewable energy. In this context, the research aimed to evaluate the waste biomass from Tectona grandis L.f. for energy purposes. Seven teak wood waste types were used, accessible from the harvesting stage to wood processing. Physical attributes (moisture and basic density) and proximate analysis (volatile materials, ashes, and fixed carbon content) were evaluated, which were used to estimate the energy attributes (higher, lower, and net heating value and energy density). It was found that most waste components had moisture content averages below 30% and did not differentiate statistically. For the basic density, values varied between 366 and 519 kg.m-3. Proximate analysis and energetic attributes of the teak wastes support its feasibility for bioenergy use, focused on trimmings and thin logs. It was concluded that teak waste has the potential for energy purposes if its specific characteristics are considered and appropriate ways of use and conversion are chosen.

Habitat Characterisation for the Macro Moth Fauna (Lepidoptera: Heterocera) of the Cachar District of Southern Assam, India

The study conducted in the Cachar district involved a comprehensive characterisation of the local flora, identifying a total of 146 tree species from 50 families. The average species richness among tree species in moth habitats was estimated to be S=47.94±9.84. Dominant tree species found across all study sites in the Cachar district included Lagerstroemia reginae Roxb., Michelia champaca L., Tectona grandis L.f., Bombax ceiba L., Dalbergia sisoo Roxb., and others. Additionally, 74 shrub species from 28 families were identified across the study area, with an average species richness in moth habitats of S=23.31±5.34. Shrub species with higher density reported in this study included Melastoma malabathricum L., Triumfetta rhomboides Roxb., and others. Furthermore, the survey identified 87 herb species from 41 families across the study sites in the Cachar district. The average species richness of herb species in moth habitats was determined to be S=58.57±32.99. Herb species with higher density documented in Cachar district during the study included Polygonum microcephala (D. Don.) Sasaki, Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers., and others. The study also highlighted food or host plants preferred by the Arctiidae, Geometridae, and Sphingidae moth families, belonging to various families such as Solanaceae, Moraceae, Poaceae, and others. This research significantly contributes to our understanding of the rich biodiversity of the Cachar district and the essential role played by plant species in supporting moth habitat.

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF COLCHICINE AND ORYZALIN ON POLYPLOIDY INDUCTION IN TEAK (Tectona grandis Linn. f.) IN VITRO

Indonesian government has launched a community plantation forests program that would be beneficial for remedying shortage in domestic demand for teak wood every year. This program needs to be supported by the availability of quality seeds resources and quality seedlings utilizing polyploid teak (Tectona grandis). Our study aimed to examine the effectiveness of colchicine and oryzalin to modify diploid into polyploid T. grandis based on growth response, morphological, anatomical and cytological alteration, as well as the acclimatization ability of polyploid plantlets. The materials used were aseptic lateral shoots consisting of nodal segments which were immersed in antimitotic agents at the concentration of 0, 15 and 30 μM for 5 days, then cultured on regeneration medium until the 8 weeks and followed by acclimatization. The results showed that colchicine at the concentration of 30 μM was the most effective to induce polyploidy of plantlets in the parameter of high growth rate, the length of internodes, the number of leaf plantlets and increase the leaf surface area and the significant chlorophyll index content compared to the control. Anatomical analysis of polyploid was characterized by increasing the leaf thickness, stomata size, decreased stomatal density and increased chloroplast content in guard cells. Based on cytological examination on polyploidy plantlet, there was an increased in the number of chromosomes in the cell nucleus. The acclimatization of polyploid successfully induced rooting and a 100% survival rate of grown plantlets. Polyploid seedlings were able to grow and well adapted to the new environment of acclimatization

Utilization of Biomass Waste at Water Treatment

This work presents some preliminary results on the direct use of untreated biomass from agricultural activities as adsorbents for water treatment. Waste was also used to produce activated carbons (ACs) by chemical activation with KOH. The efficacy of agricultural waste such as stubble, sawdust from Teak (Tectona Grandis), fibers from Imbondeiro (Adansonia digitata L.), bamboo flowers, and other regional plants were tested on methylene blue (MB) removal from the aqueous phase. Adsorption studies were conducted in a batch system and the influence of kinetics, pH, and temperature was evaluated. The adsorption performance of the natural adsorbents was significantly high concerning MB. In particular, Imbondeiro presented a maximum removal capacity of 188.3 mg per gram. This amount was similar to or even higher than the values obtained on ACs produced by their predecessors at 873 K. The studies were finished by constructing slow filters containing natural adsorbents or ACs. The maximum amounts of MB removed on a continuous flux were lower than those obtained for a diversity of untreated biomass types on a batch system. However, these amounts were comparable to the published results obtained on a diversity of untreated biomasses in batch mode.

Pemanfaatan Limbah Daun Jati Kering dan Serbuk Gergaji Kayu sebagai Bahan Baku Arang Briket di Desa Bubulan

The Bubulan Village has rich natural resources, one of which is high-quality teak trees contributing to the productivity of teak trees in Bojonegoro Regency. Despite its advantages, teak trees in Bubulan Village hold the potential for economically valuable waste, namely teak leaf waste accumulating in the forest area. Additionally, Bubulan Village is home to wooden furniture craftsmen, and every production process generates wood sawdust waste.This community service aims to empower the people of Bubulan Village in managing this waste through training on the utilization of dried teak leaf waste and wood sawdust as raw materials for charcoal briquettes. The service method begins with partner surveys, followed by reference studies and a simulation of the charcoal-making process by the team. Subsequently, tools for making charcoal briquettes (including the creation of a charcoal stove) are procured. The activities continue with outreach to showcase the potential of Bubulan Village, followed by training on the utilization of teak leaf waste and wood sawdust as raw materials for charcoal briquettes.Representatives from the youth organization (karang taruna), village officials, and 20 residents of Bubulan Village attended this community service. The outcomes of this service include an increase in participants' knowledge about charcoal briquettes made from dried teak leaves and wood sawdust by 49%. The designed and made charcoal stove by the service team functions well. Briquettes made from dried teak leaves ignite more easily but have a shorter burning duration compared to briquettes made from wood sawdust. Further testing is needed to determine the calorific value, ash content, and moisture content of these briquettes, as well as additional tests on the efficiency of the charcoal stove.Written in English with a distance between sentences of 1 space and the number of words between 150-250. The abstract should contain introductions, methods, results and discussions and conclusions (without citation). Avoid using citations in the abstract.

Modifications for Making Paving Blocks from Teak Wood Powder Ash (Tectona grandis L.f.) and LDPE (Low Density Polypropylene) Plastic Waste

<p>Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui karakteristik abu serbuk kayu jati <em>(Tectona gramdis L.f)</em>, karakteristik <em>paving block</em>, dan komposisi terbaik pembuatan <em>paving block</em> dari limbah plastik LDPE <em>(Low Density Polypropylene)</em> dengan bahan campuran abu serbuk kayu jati. Karakterisasi abu serbuk kayu jati dilakukan menggunakan XRF <em>(X-Ray Fluorescence).</em> Hasil XRF menunjukkan silika yang terdapat pada abu serbuk gergaji kayu jati sebanyak 4,47%. Kombinasi abu serbuk kayu jati dan limbah plastik LDPE dalam pembuatan <em>paving block</em> belum berhasil dilakukan karena penyusunan formulasi yang tidak tepat, sehingga pengujian karakteristik <em>paving block </em>tidak dapat dilakukan.</p>

Lapachol from Indonesian teak (Tectona grandis) wood waste as a natural additive for alkaline cooking

Lapachol from Indonesian teak (Tectona grandis) wood waste as a natural additive for alkaline cooking

Planting patterns in rubber agroforestry (Hevea brasiliensis) developed by the communities of Menggala Mas Village, Lampung Province, Indonesia

Abstract The agroforestry system provides important economic and ecological benefits for local communities, one of which is obtained from the application of planting patterns and plants species in it. This research aims to explain the planting pattern of rubber agroforestry developed by the community in Menggala Mas Village, Lampung Province, Indonesia. The approach in this research is qualitative. Data collection methods included observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation studies. The planting patterns of agroforestry system on their rubber plants were analysed. The research results showed that there are three agroforestry planting patterns implemented by the community, namely, alley cropping, trees along border and random mixture. The dominant combinations in alley cropping were rubber/karet (Hevea brasiliensis) – pulai (Alstonia scholaris) and rubber–mentru (Schima wallichii) – kayu afrika (Maesopsis eminii). The dominant combinations in trees along border were rubber–akasia (Acacia auriculiformis), rubber–jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) – cempedak (Artocarpus integer) and rubber–petai (Parkia speciosa) – jati (Tectona grandis). The dominant combinations in the random mixture were rubber–jengkol (Pithecellobium lobatum), rubber–petai–jengkol–akasia, rubber–jackfruit–cempedak, rubber–pulai–mengkudu (Morinda citrifolia L.) – jengkol and rubber–banana (Musa paradisiaca) – gadung (Dioscorea hispida) – sungkai (Peronema canescens Jack). Forty-one plant species were found. The local community wants to develop this planting pattern because the rubber agroforestry planting pattern can provide direct and indirect benefits such as a greater variety of plants which can increase their income; also, the products can be sold or consumed by the family, as a fence, fire break or barrier to other farmers’ land, can provide shade to reduce hot temperatures when farmers are working, and can reduce the risk of flooding and soil erosion to support soil and water conservation within the ‘Omou’ (garden/forest). The government and agricultural extension workers need to carry out regular guidance and outreach programmes regarding rubber agroforestry development strategies to increase public knowledge.

Evaluation of teak (Tectona grandis Linn. f) stands for establishing seed production areas in West Bengal

Evaluation of teak (Tectona grandis Linn. f) stands for establishing seed production areas in West Bengal

Teak (Tectona grandis Linn. f) and Edaphic Factors Affecting the Regeneration of Woody Species and Their Functional Traits in Economic Forest Plantation, Northern Thailand

Improved understanding of relationships among plant traits, stand characteristics, and soil properties can provide insights into the regenerating tree communities of commercial teak plantations. We investigated whether plant traits could be used to predict the natural regeneration of woody species in teak plantations with different soil and stand conditions. Data were collected in fifty 20 m × 20 m plots that were established in teak plantations of varying ages in northern Thailand. We analyzed differences in stand characteristics, soil properties, and community-level functional traits among sites. The RLQ analysis was performed to explore the associations among species abundances, plant traits, and a combined set of soil variables and stand characteristics. Our results showed that tree species with high leaf dry matter contents and high wood density dominated communities in an older teak plantation and were associated with high OM and N concentrations. Trees with larger leaves are increased in plantations that had experienced their first teak thinning, and were rich in organic matter. Species with high specific leaf areas increased in sites with high teak basal areas and which had experienced more intense thinning on fertile soils. Thick-leaved species had high importance values on sites with high densities of teak and infertile soils. Our results indicated that tree communities with similar conspecific traits were associated with specific soil and stand conditions in teak plantations. A knowledge of these regeneration dynamics may allow forest managers to encourage increased natural regeneration and enhanced diversity in commercial teak plantations.

A Comparison of Probability Density Functions Fitted by Moments and Maximum Likelihood Estimation Methods Used for Diameter Distribution Estimation

Modeling diameter distribution is a crucial aspect of forest management, requiring the selection of an appropriate probability density function or cumulative distribution function along with a fitting method. This study compared the suitability of eight probability density functions—A Charlier, beta, generalized beta, gamma, Gumbel, Johnson’s SB, and Weibull (two- and three-parameter)—fitted using both derivative methods (Moments) fitted in SAS/STATTM and optimization methods (MLE) fitted with the ‘optim’ function in R for diameter distribution estimation in forest stands. The A Charlier and Gumbel functions were used for the first time in this type of comparison. The data were derived from 167 permanent sample plots in an Atlantic forest (Quercus robur) and 59 temporary sample plots in tropical forests (Tectona grandis). Fit quality was assessed using various indices, including Kolmogorov–Smirnov, Cramér–von Mises, mean absolute error, bias, and mean squared error. The results indicated that Johnson’s SB function was more suitable for describing the diameter distribution of the stands. Johnson’s SB, three-parameter Weibull, and generalized beta consistently performed well across different fitting methods, while the fits produced by gamma, Gumbel, and two-parameter Weibull were of poor quality.

Development and characterization of eco-friendly extruded green composites using PLA/wood dust fillers

Nowadays, there is a rising demand for bio-composite materials driven by the increasing need for sustainable alternatives and a desire to lessen dependence on conventional materials. These bio-composites resent eco-friendly solutions to address these challenges. In line with this, the present study focuses on the bio composite material which developed from polylactic acid (PLA) and wood dust (NF). Wood dust sourced from teak wood plants was employed as fillers. PLA served as the matrix material, supplemented with the plasticizer polyethylene glycol (PEG) to enhance PLA processing. The PLA/NF filament was produced through the extrusion process, and specimens were prepared using 3D printing techniques in accordance with ASTM standards. Various properties including mechanical, physical, thermal stability, and tribological properties were examined. Morphological structures were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The test results demonstrated improvements in enhanced mechanical robustness and tribological performance of the PLA composite. The tensile strength of the PLA/wood composite was enhanced by 11%. The hardness value of the PLA/wood composite increased by 27% with the addition of wood as filler material. However, the introduction of wood as filler material led to degradation in physical properties. The water absorption test revealed a thickness change of approximately 14% for the PLA wood composite, whereas for pure PLA, it was 9%. Thermal stability tests showed that the temperature resistance of PLA improved to 250 °C with the introduction of wood fillers. Biodegradability tests indicated that PLA wood composite has the potential to address environmental concerns associated with conventional materials.

Genome-wide analysis of cellulose synthase gene superfamily in Tectona grandis L.f.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-024-03927-6.

Tectona grandis Linn. : ANTIDIABETIC ACTIVITY OF THE FRACTIONS USING AN IN VIVO APPROACH

The exploration of Tectona grandis Linn. from Indonesia, especially its use as an anti-diabetes agent is still quite limited. This study aims to determine the antidiabetic activity of the fractions from Tectona grandis Linn. leaves in male Rattus norvegicus. The animal blood glucose level was measured first as T0, then the animals were injected with streptozotocin (STZ) 40 mg/Kg BW to induce diabetes mellitus (DM), and then the blood was collected to determine the blood glucose level (T1). The animal was divided into six groups, namely normal group (NC) without treatment, positive control (K+) (DM+glibenclamide 5 mg), negative control (K-) (DM+NaCMC 0.5%), fractions group (DM+nHexane fraction (P1), DM+chloroform fraction (P2), and DM+ethyl acetate fraction (P3), each dose 300 mg/kg BW). The duration of treatment was 7 days, and at the end of treatment, the blood glucose levels were determined. The T0, T1, and T2 are analyzed using One-Way ANOVA and post-hoc LSD. The results obtained that the K+, P3, P2, and P1 groups were able to reduce the animals' blood glucose levels significantly (p<0.05), with the blood glucose levels are 97.01; 110.96; 129.38; and 111.46 mg/dL, respectively. The percentage of reduction in blood glucose level shows that the K+ group has the highest percentage at 66.8%, followed by the P3 group at 64.0%. The n-hexane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate fractions showed similar effectiveness to glibenclamide in reducing blood glucose levels statistically (p>0.05). Consequently, Tectona grandis Linn ...

Dynamics of nitrogen mineralization and fine root decomposition in sub-tropical Shorea robusta Gaertner f. forests of Central Himalaya, India

This study aimed to examine the effects of spatial and temporal variability in edaphic, and climatic attributeson soil net nitrogen mineralization rate, and to understand the pattern of fine root decomposition of dominant and co-dominant tree species, and its influence on the nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems. Study was carried out at four different sites in sub-tropical forest ecosystems of Shorea robusta, in foothills of Central Himalayan region, India. Co-dominant tree species at four sites were Mallotus philippensis (site A), Glochidion velutinum (site B), Holarrhena pubescens (site C), and Tectona grandis (site D). Buried bag technique was used for nitrogen mineralization, while fine root decomposition was determined using fine root mesh bags. Seasonal variation, soil depth, soil characteristics, and site variability, all significantly (p < 0.05) affected nitrogen mineralization rates. Fine root decomposition was significantly affected by nutrient concentration of fine roots. Total mineral nitrogen was maximum at site D (16.24 ± 0.96 μg g−1 soil), while minimum at site C (10.10 ± 0.84 μg g−1 soil). Maximum nitrogen mineralization (13.18 ± 0.18 μg g−1 month−1) was recorded during summer season at site D, while the minimum nitrogen mineralization (3.20 ± 0.46 μg g−1 month−1) was recorded during rainy season at site C. Inorganic-N and net nitrogen mineralization was relatively higher in 0–20 cm soil layer than 20–40 cm and 40–60 cm soil layer. The fine roots showed 70.61–74.82 % weight loss on completion of 365 days of decomposition process. Maximum fine root decomposition was observed in the G. velutinum, and minimum in T. grandis. A significant positive correlation (p < 0.05) was observed between root nitrogen and carbon content, and decomposition rates per month. This study concluded that the spatial and temporal variability in soil nitrogen mineralization rates and fine root decomposition optimises nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems, which can contribute to the development of sustainable forest management practices.

Wood traits of Tectona grandis during the 2015–2016 El Niño drought in the Amazon

The Amazon biome is influenced by El Niño event, which reduce precipitation and increase temperature. However, little is known about its effects on tree formation dynamics in this region. Here, we evaluated the effects of local (precipitation, temperature, and solar insolation) and large-scale (El Niño) climatic variables on wood traits of Tectona grandis (teak) in the Amazon. Discs were collected from the base of trees aged 12 years and used for anatomical and physical analyses. We evaluated three periods (i.e., pre-El Niño (2012/2013), El Niño (2014/2015), and post-El Niño (2016/2017)). Wood density, vessels, and rays were compared to local and large-scale climatic variables. The extreme drought caused by El Niño event reduced the width and length of teak vessels. Additionally, precipitation during some months of the year increased vessel size and wood density. In some months of the year, ambient temperature reduced vessel width and length. Moreover, the effect of solar insolation depended on soil moisture availability. Thus, our results provided clear evidence of teak acclimatization to El Niño in the Amazon region and should promote further studies on tree responses to climate.

Effect of Thermal Modification on the Density, Durability, Dimensional Stability, and Mechanical Properties of Pinus caribaea

Pinus caribaea (Pine) is an underutilized timber species in Sri Lanka due to its low density, durability, dimensional stability, and undesirable colour. This research aims to examine the enhancements in the physical and mechanical properties of Pinewood through thermal modification (TM) and compare the properties of the TM wood with kiln-dried and untreated wood and with the properties of high-graded timbers of Tectona grandis (teak) and Koompassia malaccensi (kempas). TM is a process that involves heating wood to high temperatures (2000 C) in the absence of oxygen, which removes the moisture and creates changes in the wood at the cellular level. The effectiveness of the thermal modification on density, modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), moisture content, dimensional stability, durability, and colour was studied. Specific gravity of thermally modified wood was 6% higher than untreated wood, but lower than teak and kempas. MOR and MOE values were 35.75% and 46.46% respectively higher than untreated wood. Equilibrium moisture content was reduced after TM and volumetric shrinkage of TM was reduced to 2.16% and swelling under liquid water contact was reduced to 2.37%. Thermally modified timber was classified as not durable (DC 5) based on field test (EN 252, 2014) results. However, TM timber was slightly durable (DC 4) according to laboratory tests and showed better fungal resistance. The wood underwent a darkening effect as a result of thermal modification, resembling the colour of teak. The cost of TM was 13.1% higher than kiln drying. Improved dimensional stability, enhanced bending strength, and attractive appearance demonstrate the potential of thermal modification as a promising alternative for transforming P. caribaea wood into high-value raw material. TM timber finds suitable applications in indoor furniture and joinery projects. However, due to its lack of termite resistance, preservative treatment is recommended for outdoor ground contact usage.&#x0D; &#x0D; Keywords: Thermally modified timber, Mechanical properties, Dimensional stability, Durability,&#x0D; Pinus caribaea&#x0D;

Application of near-infrared spectroscopy for predicting the wood density of teakwood stands by increment cores and thin wood surface sampling

Density, as the most critical information for wood materials could be predicted by near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. Increment cores and thin wood samples of teakwood ( Tectona grandis) served as research materials for this new approach to sampling for NIR spectroscopy, explained in detail. Density data were combined with their NIR spectra data for analysis using cross-validation partial least squares regression as chemometrics to produce a density prediction model. A new approach of increment cores from teakwood stands for NIR spectroscopy measurements for density predictions resulting in a 0.34 coefficient of determination for cross-validation (R2CV) and 0.40 of R2CV for thin wood samples as the best result from the first derivative with 25 smoothing points of NIR spectra. The improvement from the previous research for density prediction accuracy resulted in an R2CV value of 0.55. The smaller diameter of the increment core sample than the NIR light beam's diameter and illuminated mixed surface (transversal and radial) are supposed to give weaker prediction accuracy by this new approach.

Growing Coffea canephora in agroforestry systems with Brazilian firetree, Brazil nut, and teak

Planting coffee in agroforestry systems (AFSs) provides diverse advantages to farmers interested in producing environmental services, such as increased local biodiversity, reduction in soil erosion, improvement in water infiltration into the soil, and regulation of climate extremes. It can also be economically attractive due to the possibility of serving alternative markets that have higher and more stable prices for coffees integrated into alternative systems and the generation of products complementary to coffee. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different planting densities of three forest species on the composition of AFSs with coffee plants under the conditions of the southwestern Amazon region. The study was conducted from November 2014 to June 2021 in the experimental field of Embrapa in Ouro Preto do Oeste, RO, Brazil. The coffee plants were intercropped with three forest species: i) Brazilian firetree (Schizolobium parahyba var. amazonicum), ii) Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa), and iii) teak (Tectona grandis). The treatments used in each experiment were four plant densities of plants: zero (coffee plants only, in full sun), 111 plants ha−1 (10 × 9 m), 222 plants ha−1 (10 × 4.5 m), and 444 plants ha−1 (5 × 4.5 m). The experiments were conducted in a split-plot arrangement, with plots consisting of plant densities and subplots consisting of harvest periods (crop seasons). The experimental design was completely randomized, with nine replications. The part of the plot used for data collection consisted of one planted row with 12 coffee plants. The average and accumulated productivities of coffe plants were evaluated over five harvests (2017-2021). Afforestation of the coffee field with Brazilian firetree plants reduces the mean yield and cumulative yield of C. canephora ‘Conilon’ in the first five commercial crop years. Brazil nut and teak planted at densities of up to 222 trees per hectare did not lead to a reduction in the mean and cumulative yield of coffee plants.

Structure, Synthesis, and Bioassays of Sex Pheromone for Pyrausta machaeralis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae).

The leaf skeletonizer, Pyrausta machaeralis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), is a serious insect pest of teak (Tectona grandis) in China. The application of insect pheromones is widely applied as an environmentally friendly technology for integrated pest management (IPM). In the present study, crude extracts of sex pheromone glands of calling P. machaeralis females were collected and then analyzed using gas chromatography/electroantennographic detection (GC/EAD) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The combination of infrared spectroscopy (IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometry was used for structure identification. Afterward, their electrophysiological and behavioral activity was evaluated in the laboratory and field. Herein, we eventually determined two active components, E-11-tetradecenyl acetate (E11-14:Ac) and Z-11-tetradecenyl acetate (Z11-14:Ac), at a ratio of 96:4, as the sex pheromone of P. machaeralis. The identification of sex pheromones would facilitate the development of efficient strategies for monitoring and controlling the field populations of P. machaeralis.