Assessing Water Absorption and Root-Shoot Dynamics of Native Philippine Tree Species for Flood Mitigation and Environmental Management

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Over the years, excessive stormwater run-off has been a primary environmental concern in almost every part of the world. This study aimed to assess the water absorption capacity and root-shoot ratio of the three native species, namely Vitex parviflora, Pterocarpus indicus, and Diospyrus discolor, in the Philippines. The study used an experimental design with a total number of 63 experimental seedlings. After over a month of transplanting, the researchers collected the data by uprooting 1 sample per box and recording its weight. The uprooted samples were then submerged into a container with enough water, and the plant waited until it absorbed enough water before being weighed again. Root and shoot ratio were also computed using its dry weight. The results showed a significant difference in terms of absorption rate between the three native species. V. parviflora garnered the highest water absorption rate, followed by P. indicus and D. discolor. Root-shoot ratio was highest in D. discolor while lowest in V. parviflora. No significant correlation was found between root and shoot biomass regarding water absorption capacity. These findings highlight the importance of selecting specific tree species for environmental management and flood mitigation efforts in the Philippines.

Keywords: biomass, native species, stormwater run-off, water absorption

Selecting a Suitable Synthesis of Industrial Hot Melt Nanostructured Polyurethane Adhesives for the Enhanced Bonding of MDF and PVC Veneers - A Review

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This review focuses on the synthesis and application of industrial hot-melt nanostructured polyurethane adhesives (HMPUAs) used for enhancing the bonding of medium-density fiberboard (MDF) with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) veneers. The use of PVC veneers has been identified as an effective approach to protect wood composite products, particularly MDF, due to its resistance to moisture, environmental conditions, and cost-effectiveness. However, achieving strong adhesion between PVC and MDF remains challenging due to differences in their chemical and structural properties. This study compares various synthesis methods of polyurethane adhesives, emphasizing the prepolymer method as the most efficient approach for producing high-performance HMPUAs. Key challenges include optimizing the isocyanate to hydroxyl group ratio (NCO/OH), selecting appropriate polyols, and incorporating suitable additives. The effects of nanoparticles, including nanosilica, nanolignin, phosphorus, nitrogen compounds, mica particles, and aluminum trihydrate, on the mechanical and thermal properties of polyurethane adhesives are thoroughly discussed. Furthermore, the challenges of achieving consistent adhesive performance, compatibility, and durability under varying environmental conditions are addressed. The findings of this review provide essential insights into improving the synthesis of one-component HMPUAs and enhancing their applicability in MDF-PVC veneer bonding.

Keywords: additives, hot melt adhesive, medium-density fiberboard, polyurethane, reactive resin

Jurnal Sylva Lestari

Assessing Water Absorption and Root-Shoot Dynamics of Native Philippine Tree Species for Flood Mitigation and Environmental Management

Selecting a Suitable Synthesis of Industrial Hot Melt Nanostructured Polyurethane Adhesives for the Enhanced Bonding of MDF and PVC Veneers - A Review