Sifat Fisis dan Mekanis Batang Aren (Arenga longipes Mogea) Bagian Pangkal

Abstract

The aren or sugar palm tree is a type of Non-Timber Forest Product (NTFP) plant with high economic potential and can thrive in tropical regions such as Indonesia. The aren tree is multifunctional, as almost all parts of the plant, including the trunk, can be used for various purposes. The utilization of the aren trunk for building materials or furniture has the potential to provide a solution to the wood supply deficit for structural materials or furniture needs. This study aims to evaluate the basic physical and mechanical characteristics of the trunk of the Arenga longipes Mogea species, a type of sugar palm commonly found in the Sumatra region, particularly at the base of the trunk. The physical properties tested include moisture content, density, and shrinkage. The mechanical properties tested include tensile strength, hardness, modulus of elasticity (MOE), and modulus of rupture (MOR). The tests for physical and mechanical properties were conducted according to BS 373:1957 standard. The results of the physical properties of the Arenga longipes trunk base showed that the moisture content was 19.749%, length shrinkage was 0.33%, width shrinkage was 2.23%, thickness shrinkage was 2.12%, volume shrinkage was 4.62%, and density was 0.41 g/cm³. The mechanical properties of the Arenga longipes trunk base showed that the tensile strength was 472.415 kgf/cm², hardness was 198.03 kgf/cm², MOE was 10.587 kgf/cm², and MOR was 344.567 kgf/cm². Based on the physical and mechanical properties, the trunk base of Arenga longipes is suitable for use as furniture material and structural components in buildings with light loads.