The The Development of Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam) from Teak Plantation

Abstract

This study focuses on the development of Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam) made from teak wood scraps sourced from a teak plantation forest. These are by-products left over from the teak processing operations of the Forest Industry Organization, which the wood, approximately 25-30 years old, that cannot be sawn into commercially required dimensions, constitute a significant waste stream within the production process. The objectives were to develop Glulam from teak wood scraps, evaluate the mechanical properties of the resulting products, and explore opportunities for value enhancement within the wood-processing industry. The study referred to four testing methods: shear tests, Modulus of Rupture (MOR) tests, Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) tests (according to ISO/TR 19623:2019 standard), and adhesive tests (according to EN 204:2001 standard). Polyurethane adhesives; PU, which demonstrates high toughness, dimensional stability, flexibility, and superior bonding performance, and Emulsion polymer isocyanate (EPI) adhesive, recognized for its rapid curing behavior at ambient temperature as well as its high bond strength and durability, were employed in the lamination process. Both adhesive systems are extensively utilized in exterior-grade wood-product manufacturing due to their excellent thermal resistance, strong durability under water and moisture exposure, and environmentally benign attributes. The results showed shear strengths were 7.94 MPa and 8.12 MPa, Modulus of Rupture were 53.03 MPa and 64.44 MPa, and Modulus of Elasticity were 9,476.41 MPa and 9,659.61 MPa, respectively. Additionally, the result provide compelling evidence that teak residues, typically regarded as low-value waste materials, can be effectively transformed into structurally reliable Glulam products suitable for various construction applications. This valorization pathway not only enhances the economic utility of teak processing residues but also offers a scientifically grounded framework that can inform industrial practice and support the advancement of sustainable and resource-efficient wood-product manufacturing in Thailand.