Albasia wood is also known as Albizia wood or Albizia falcataria. Albasia is a very pale yellow softwood, lighter than most pine species. It is a preferred wood species for builders because of its excellent properties.
The wood can be ready for harvesting in about 3 to 4 years as it is a fast growing tree of the legume family. The wood has a moisture content of 8 to 12% after complete drying.
Albasia wood is mostly found in Indonesia, and Albasia trees can grow easily in all climates, such as high and low areas or where there is more or less rainfall. Due to this, it is easily available in large quantities in most parts of the country.
Its demand has been consistent in North Africa and the Middle East. The farmer will get sales of about US$125,000/ha in 5 years.
The Albasia tree can be up to 1 m in diameter and grows to about 30 m tall. Trees can be planted at about 1,000-2,000 trees/hectare. Due to the proper distance between the trees, they are straight and tall.
Albasia Wood Uses
Commercial uses: Albasia Falcata is a soft and light wood. It is used to make many applications such as matchsticks, chopsticks, shipping pallets, and wooden art.
Plywood: Albasia wood is used for making plywood lightweight. The demand for lightweight plywood is very high in building construction. It is also used to make finger joint laminated products. Generally, the thickness of Albasia plywood can be from 1,8 mm to 50 mm.
Paper: It is extensively used in the paper and cardboard industries.
Crates and Boxes: It is an affordable and lightweight wood species, so it is used to make crates which are very easy to transportation
Furniture: Albasia wood is used to make interior furniture, such as tables, beds, boards, doors, chairs, musical instruments, blockboards and hardboards, fuelwood, and more.
Beams: Albasia wood is a lightweight, straight grain but still very tough and strong. So it is also used to make beams.
Albasia wood Advantages
Durable: This wood is durable and stable for interior furniture. It is not recommended for exterior purposes.
Bright Color: The wood is pinkish, yellowish or reddish-brown, which gives excellent results after the finish. Due to its excellent appearance it can be used to add aesthetic qualities, especially to decorate your rooms and offices.
Availability: It is a fast-growing tree ready for harvesting in 6-8 years. Hence it is easily available in different sizes and thicknesses.
Easy to Work: Albasia wood is a soft wood that is easy to work with. Its straight grain pattern allows for ease of working. Albasia wood is mostly used for making small structures.
Albasia Wood Disadvantages
Regular care required: It requires more care and maintenance than other softwoods. Because it is not rot-resistant.
Not for Exterior Applications: It is not weather and moisture resistant, so it may not last long in outdoor environments.
Prone to warping and shrinking: It is prone to warping and shrinking, especially when exposed to moisture or weather.
Is Albasia Wood Waterproof?
No, Albasia wood is neither water resistant nor waterproof at all. It is not able to withstand moisture and extreme weather. It tends to rot when exposed to moisture and is also suspicious of insect attack.
What is Albasia Wood Best For?
Albasia wood is mainly used to make paper, crates and boxes. This wood is not well known for making furniture as it is less durable and stable than other softwoods.
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