SEM-EDS Characterization of Elemental Composition in Nano-SiO2-Impregnated White Teak Wood Powder for Sustainable Construction

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FORMOSA NEWS

A research team from Halu Oleo University and Yogyakarta State University led by Nini H. Aswad published an in-depth study in August 2026 characterizing the elemental composition of white teak wood powder from Southeast Sulawesi impregnated with nano-silicon dioxide (nano-SiO2) and furfuryl alcohol. This research is vital for ensuring the effectiveness of wood material modification in improving dimensional stability and physical durability for modern building construction needs.

White teak wood is a natural cellulosic material with a porous structure, where water absorption into wood cells can trigger dimensional changes, warping, and a decrease in material durability. To address these weaknesses, chemical impregnation and nanoparticle techniques have been developed to fill empty voids within the wood structure.

This research methodology used electron microscope and X-ray spectroscopy techniques (SEM-EDS) to compare the characteristics of untreated control wood powder with wood powder that underwent impregnation treatment using nano-SiO2 and furfuryl alcohol.

Analysis of the data revealed several key findings:

• The impregnated wood powder was dominated by Carbon (C) at 63.69 wt% and Oxygen (O) at 34.52 wt%.
• Silicon (Si) was recorded at 1.54 wt% in the impregnated sample, while in the control wood powder, this element was entirely undetectable or valued at 0.00 wt%.
• The appearance of a 1.54 wt% silicon content provides local evidence consistent with the successful deposition of nano-SiO2 penetrating into the wood network.
• Minor mineral constituents such as Calcium (0.14 wt%) and Potassium (0.11 wt%) were also identified as additional components in the sample.

The implications of this research provide a crucial foundation for the wood processing industry and building material engineering sectors. According to Nini H. Aswad and fellow researchers from Halu Oleo University and Yogyakarta State University, the application of nano-SiO2 impregnation has proven capable of altering the chemical composition of wood powder locally, holding great potential to significantly enhance structural durability against moisture threats.

Author Profiles

• Nini H. Aswad – Lecturer and Researcher at the Department of Civil Engineering, Halu Oleo University, Kendari, Indonesia, with expertise in material engineering and building structures.
• Susanti Djalante – Researcher at the Department of Civil Engineering, Halu Oleo University, Indonesia, and the Department of Civil Engineering and Planning, Yogyakarta State University, Indonesia.
• Tryantini S. Putri – Researcher at the Department of Civil Engineering, Halu Oleo University, Kendari, Indonesia.
• Tachrir – Researcher at the Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Halu Oleo University, Kendari, Indonesia.

Research Source

• Article Title: SEM-EDS Characterization of the Elemental Composition of Nano-SiO2 and Furfuryl Alcohol-Impregnated White Teak Wood Powder
• Journal Name: International Journal of Integrated Science and Technology (IJIST)
• Publication Year: August 2026