Durability and economic viability of Neolamarckia cadamba and Falcataria falcata for composite wood production

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Abstract

Alamsyah EM, Sembada AA, Abdullah AF, Suhaya Y, Sutrisno, Darwis A, Sumardi I, Yustiana Y, Malik J, Munawar SS. 2026. Durability and economic viability of Neolamarckia cadamba and Falcataria falcata for composite wood production. Asian J For 10 (1): r100125. https://doi.org/10.13057/asianjfor/r100125. The suitability of fast-growing tropical species for composite wood production depends on both biological durability and economic feasibility; however, empirical studies integrating these aspects remain limited. In Indonesia, Neolamarckia cadamba (jabon) and Falcataria falcata (sengon) are widely planted, yet their comparative performance in composite applications is insufficiently understood. This study addresses this gap by evaluating the natural durability and economic viability of both species in solid wood and Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) forms. Biological durability was assessed using a 3-month soil burial test conducted in accordance with ASTM standards, supported by visual deterioration ratings and statistical analysis. Economic performance was analysed based on timber transaction records from the West Java Provincial Forestry Department and raw material cost calculations. Results showed that sengon exhibited significantly lower weight loss than jabon in both solid and LVL forms (p < 0.05), with approximately 45-55% lower mass loss, indicating greater resistance to subterranean termites and decay fungi. LVL products of both species experienced slightly higher deterioration than solid wood, likely due to adhesive interface exposure and increased moisture penetration. Market analysis revealed that sengon dominates regional timber supply and displays wider price variability, reflecting high availability and strong demand, whereas jabon showed limited supply and higher, more concentrated prices. Cost analysis further indicated that producing one cubic meter of composite material from jabon requires approximately 26% higher raw material costs than sengon. Overall, the findings demonstrate that sengon offers a more favorable balance between durability and economic efficiency, supporting its broader suitability for composite wood production and industrial scaling.

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