Effect of Carbonate Formation on the Physical, Mechanical, and Fire Resistance Properties of CaCO3- Mineralized Sengon Wood

Abstract

Fast-growing sengon wood falls into the low durability and strength class. Enhancing the physical, mechanical, and fire-resistance properties of sengon can be an important step toward increasing its market value. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of CaCO₃ formation in enhancing physical, mechanical, and fire-resistance properties of sengon wood. The wood was impregnated in two steps with calcium chloride (CaCl₂) and assisted potassium carbonate (K₂CO₃) at three concentrations (0.5, 1, and 2 mol/L). The results showed that the consequent CaCO₃ mineralization process at moderate concentrations improved wood properties. The concentrations of 0.5 and 1 mol/L showed optimal overall performance in improving the properties of sengon wood, with 0.5 mol/L offering potential advantages in terms of treatment efficiency. In particular, mechanical properties were increased by about 20% compared to the control. The use of CaCO₃ at 2 mol/L was less effective at improving mechanical properties. However, the physical and fire resistance properties were comparable to those of moderate concentrations of 0.5 mol/L and 1 mol/L. Based on this work, mineralization can be regarded as an alternative to improve wood properties, especially fire resistance, for environmentally friendly structural applications.