Nyatoh Wood: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Nyatoh is the Standard Malaysian Name for light, reddish wood from the family Sapotaceae. This versatile wood is known by various names across Malaysia, including bengku, ekor, jangkar, rian, and more, depending on the region. Major species contributing to Nyatoh wood include Madhuca curtisii, M. kingiana, Palaquium gutta, P. maingayi, and many others.
Nyatoh wood is also known internationally as Nyatoh in Brunei, Mahua in India, and Pencil Cedar in Papua New Guinea. It is widely used for its appealing reddish-brown heartwood and moderately light sapwood.
Density
Nyatoh is classified as Light Hardwood with a density ranging from 400 to 1,075 kg/m³ when air-dried, making it suitable for a variety of applications.
Natural Durability
Nyatoh wood exhibits variable natural durability depending on the species. While most fall into the moderately durable class, some species are either more durable or less durable. However, Nyatoh wood is susceptible to termite and fungal attacks. It can be treated with preservatives to enhance its durability significantly.
Notably, tests conducted at the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) demonstrated that Nyatoh wood treated with preservatives, such as 100% creosote, can remain sound for over 30 years, making it a highly durable material when treated properly.
Natural Durability of Nyatoh Wood
| Species | Average Life Span (years) | Durability Classification |
| Diploknema sebifera | 2.5 | Moderately durable |
| Palaquium gutta | 1.7 | Not durable |
| P. impressinervium | 5.5 | Durable |
| P. maingayi | 2.8 | Moderately durable |
Preservative Treatment
Nyatoh wood is classified as very difficult to treat with preservatives, but when successfully treated, it becomes highly durable and suitable for long-term use.
Texture and Grain
Nyatoh wood has a moderately fine to slightly coarse texture, with straight to shallowly interlocked grains. In some cases, the grain may also be wavy, adding to its visual appeal.
Strength Properties
Nyatoh wood generally falls into Strength Groups B and C, with some species like Palaquium impressinervium falling into Strength Group A, indicating high strength for load-bearing applications. Nyatoh is also classified under SG 5.
Strength Properties of Nyatoh Wood
| Species | Condition | Modulus of Elasticity (MPa) | Modulus of Rupture (MPa) | Compression (MPa) | Shear Strength (MPa) |
| P. gutta | Green | 11,300 | 64 | 34.3 | 9.2 |
| P. impressinervium | Green | 17,000 | 97 | 53.7 | 11.7 |
| P. maingayi | Green | 11,700 | 63 | 33.7 | 8.1 |
Machining Properties
The ease of working with Nyatoh wood varies by species. Lighter species are easy to saw and work with, producing smooth surfaces. However, heavier species like P. impressinervium are difficult to machine, resulting in moderately smooth or rough finishes.
Machining Properties of Nyatoh Wood
| Species | Test Condition | Sawing | Planing | Boring | Turning | Finish Quality |
| Ganua motleyana | Green/Air dry | Easy | Smooth | Easy | Smooth | Smooth |
| P. impressinervium | Green/Air dry | Very difficult | Moderately smooth | Difficult | Rough | Rough |
Nailing Property
Nyatoh wood exhibits good to excellent nailing properties, making it suitable for various joinery and structural applications.
Drying Properties
Nyatoh wood can be air-dried or kiln-dried. The seasoning process varies by species, with air drying taking 2-6 months depending on thickness. For kiln-drying, Kiln Schedule E is recommended for lighter species, while heavier species require Schedules D or C.
Shrinkage
Nyatoh wood demonstrates varying levels of shrinkage during the drying process. Species such as P. impressinervium and P. maingayi exhibit higher shrinkage rates.
| Species | Radial Shrinkage (%) | Tangential Shrinkage (%) | Remarks |
| P. gutta | 1 | 1.9 | Fairly low shrinkage |
| P. impressinervium | 3 | 3.6 | High shrinkage |
Common Uses of Nyatoh Wood
Nyatoh wood is widely popular for:
- Furniture: Ideal for high-end furniture due to its rich color and texture.
- Solid Doors: Frequently used for solid interior doors.
- Decorative Works: Perfect for interior panelling, mouldings, and partitioning.
- Joinery: Used in flooring, decking, and staircases.
- Construction: Employed in light-duty columns, door/window frames, and shipbuilding.
Conclusion
Nyatoh wood offers a blend of beauty, durability, and versatility, making it a popular choice for furniture, construction, and interior decoration. When treated, it can last for decades, providing both aesthetic and practical value. Whether you’re looking for premium wood for furniture or structural applications, Nyatoh wood delivers an excellent solution.
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