Rhizophora apiculata: Comparative Properties Between Solid and Engineered Laminated Boards

Abstract

The study investigated the elucidation properties between the solid wood and engineered laminated boards of matured Rhizophora apiculata. Harvested logs segregated into the bottom, middle and top portions and subsequently sawn into wooden planks. The samples for laminated boards were cut into specific thicknesses and bonded with adhesive using pressed clamped. Preparation for testing samples for the solid and laminated boards made following the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. Properties such as the moisture content, density, basic density, static bending (MOR and MOE), and compression were determined. The results showed an improvement in properties from the solid to laminated board. The values in density, MOR, and MOE increases in the range of 2-6%, 29-42%, and 13-36%, respectively. However, values in the moisture content, basic density, and compression indicated vice versa trend ranging from 1-2%, 2-6%, and 8-24%, respectively. The bottom portion was more durable and robust compared than other portions.