2015 Volume 62 Issue 3 Pages 3_25-3_34
Potential young teaks (Tectona grandis L.f.) from the thinning of teak plantations can be utilized for making products by taking the advantage of its mechanical properties and characteristics. This research assess the mechanical properties and the characteristics of sapwood and its heartwood of young teaks from each of age classes in the rotation age of 40 years of teaks plantation in West Java area, Indonesia. Mechanical properties of young teak are the determination of its MOR and MOE, and it has been determined that the difference strength between sapwood and its heartwood among the age classes is not significant. Characteristics of young teak are intended to the variation of its grain pattern and the color intensity. The lighter color of sapwood of young teak has the specific effect that the color of colorant will appear more attractive than on its heartwood, and the combination of the contrast border pattern between sapwood and its heartwood part will create the unique appearances.