Anatomical, Physical and Mechanical Properties of Lesser-Known Wood Species of Simpur (Dillenia serrata ) from Indonesia and Its Potential Uses

Simpur (Dillenia serrata Baehni) is a lesser-known wood species extracted from the natural tropical forest in East Luwu District, South Sulawesi Province of Indonesia. This research examined its basic properties and determined its potential use by considering those properties. The wood properties examined were anatomical, physical, and mechanical. General characteristics were observed using whole wood or plank-shaped samples that had been placed on the surface; incision preparations were made following the Sass procedure; anatomical characteristics were observed according to the IAWA list of microscopic features for hardwood identification and fibers dimensions using maceration. The method for testing the physical and mechanical properties follow the Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS). The results showed that simpur is reddish brown and its heartwood and sapwood are distinguishable. The wood has a plain style figure, straight grain or occasionally slightly interlocked, slightly coarse and even texture, somewhat dull gloss, and a slightly rough touch impression. The growth rings are vague, diffuse, vessels with large radii, very long fibers, a very wide fiber diameter, and thin to thick cell wall thickness. The wood is classified as medium specific gravity, very high shrinkage, and second-class strength. The wood can be potentially used for medium-to-weight construction structural materials, veneer and plywood, particle board, pulp, and paper.