Niken Pujirahayu, Zakiah Uslinawaty, Nurnaningsih Hamzah, Tahta Aditya, Siti Sarina, Icha
Muna teak (Tectona grandis L.f.) is known for its high quality, yet information regarding the influence of harvest age on its natural durability remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the differences in chemical composition and resistance of 15- and 20-year-old Muna teak wood against subterranean termite attack. Heartwood samples were taken from the base, middle, and top sections of the stem. Chemical composition analysis included holocellulose, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and alcohol-benzene extractive content. Termite resistance was tested using the graveyard test method for three months, following ASTM D 1785-02 standards. Weight loss data were analyzed using ANOVA and the DMRT post hoc test. The results showed that 20-year-old wood had higher lignin (26.75%) and extractive (3.55%) content compared to 15-year-old wood (lignin 24.85%; extractive 3.23%). Consequently, the average weight loss due to termite attack on 15-year-old wood (0.107%) was significantly higher (p<0.01) than on 20-year-old wood (0.062%). The axial position factor also showed a significant effect (p<0.05), with the top section exhibiting the highest susceptibility. Based on the SNI 01-7207-2014 classification, both age groups of Muna teak wood fell into Class I (Highly Durable). In conclusion, increasing the age from 15 to 20 years enhances the natural durability of Muna teak, which is associated with increased levels of lignin and bioactive extractives.