Estimating Extractive Content in Dalbergia latifolia Wood Using Near-Infrared (NIR) Spectroscopy and Three Solvent Systems

Near Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy has emerged as a pivotal analytical tool for the non-destructive estimation of extractive content in various wood species. This study focuses on Dalbergia latifolia (Indian rosewood), renowned for its high-quality timber, by employing NIR spectroscopy to estimate extractive content using three distinct solvent systems: water, iso-propanolol, and hexane. Our objective is to evaluate and compare the efficacy of these solvents in extracting wood constituents, which are critical for enhancing wood properties and industrial applications such as preservation and quality control. The methodology involves preparing wood samples of D. latifolia and treating them with each solvent. NIR spectroscopy is then applied to measure the extractive content. The spectral data obtained were analysed to identify the most effective solvent system. Preliminary results indicate significant variations in extractive yields depending on the solvent used, showcasing the sensitivity and accuracy of NIR spectroscopy in detecting these differences. This study underscores the potential of NIR spectroscopy as a rapid, reliable, and environmentally friendly technique for assessing wood quality. These findings contribute to sustainable wood management practices and offer insights that can drive innovations in wood processing industries. We invite further discussions on the application of NIR spectroscopy in forestry and material sciences at the conference.