Anatomical, Physical, Chemical, and Biological Durability Properties of Two Rattan Species of Different Diameter Classes

Abstract

Rattan cane is an important forest product with economic value. Its anatomical, physical, and biological properties vary with the cane height. This makes it difficult to select the appropriate cane diameter for harvesting. Understanding the material properties of rattan cane with different diameter sizes is important to enhance its utilization and performance for different end uses. Thus, the present study was performed on two rattan species, Calamus zollingeri and Calamus ornatus, at two different cane heights (bottom/mature and top/juvenile). Calamus zollingeri was studied at diameter classes of 20 mm and 30 mm, while Calamus ornatus was analyzed at a diameter class of 15 mm. The anatomical properties, basic density, volumetric swelling, dynamic moisture sorption, and biological durability of rattan samples were studied. The results showed that C. zollingeri with a 20 mm diameter exhibited the highest basic density, hydrophobicity, dimensional stability, and durability against mold and white-rot (Trametes versicolor) fungi. As confirmed by anatomical studies, this could be due to the higher vascular bundle frequency and longer thick-walled fibers that led to a denser structure than in the other categories. In addition, the lignin content might have a positive effect on the mass loss of different rattan canes caused by white-rot decay.

The Optimization of the Steam-Heat-Treated Process of Rattan (Calamus simplicifolius) Based on the Response Surface Analysis and Its Chemical Changes

“…Furthermore, at the third stage of pyrolysis, the residues for the rattan samples are recorded as 21.64%, 22.25%, and 23.48%. Notably, lignin becomes the primary pyrolysis product at this stage [20]. Therefore, it is consistent with the chemical composition analysis that sample R200 demonstrates the highest mass loss rate during this stage.…”

“…The impact of the fiber percentage and cell wall thickness on the shrinkage-swelling and Modulus of Elasticity of the cane is already defined [19]. Also, changes in durability properties of two rattan species of different diameters were researched [20]. These property changes are closely related to processing parameters such as the temperature, duration, medium, and pressure applied during the heat treatment.…”