Natural durability of raru wood (Cotylelobium melanoxylon) against subterranean termite attack

Abstract

Cotylelobium melanoxylon or locally known as raru is one of the endemic species in North Sumatra. The species was disjunct distributed in Central Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra. The purpose of this study was to analyze the wood durability of C. melanoxylon against termites' attack by using the graveyard test method. Wood samples were made measuring 3 cm by 3 cm by 20 cm. The test sample was dried using an oven at 103 ± 2°C for 24 hours before and after the test. The graveyard test was carried out for 3 months (90 days). The test parameter observed was a weight loss of the sample. The results showed that C. melanoxylon wood was classified into durable class II and included in a resistant category with weight loss values ranging from 0.89 to 2.79% for axial direction and 1.81 to 2.22% for lateral direction.