The Composition and Termicidal Activity of Vinegar from Medang Wood (Cinnamomum sp.) under Different Pyrolysis Temperature

Abstract

The degradation of wood caused by termite infestations is widely recognized as a substantial concern. Therefore, the development of alternative, environmentally-friendly preservation of wood is needed to reduce environmental pollution. The study aimed to analyze the chemical properties of vinegar from medang wood (Cinnamomum sp.) and assess its effectiveness as a termicidal activity against Coptotermes curvignathus. Wood vinegar is made by the pyrolysis method. Pyrolysis is carried out by inserting of air-dried medang wood particles into a pyrolysis reactor and was heated up to the desired temperature of 370, 400, 430°C with the pyrolysis time was 180 minutes. Wood vinegars were tested at various concentrations (2.0-10.0%, v/v) against C. curvignathus in a no-choice test. Result shows that an 8% concentration was required to achieve 100% mortality against C. curvignathus at a 430°C pyrolysis temperature. The lowest mass loss of treated filter paper, 11.99%, was obtained with a 430°C – 10.0% combination.