Physical Properties of Fast-Growing Wood-Polymer Nano Composite Synthesized through TiO(2) Nanoparticle Impregnation

Mangium (Acacia mangium Willd.) is a fast-growing wood that is widely grown in Indonesia. The impregnation method is needed to improve the qualities of the wood. In this study, TiO(2) nanoparticle (79.17 nm) was produced using the hydrothermal method. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of TiO(2) nanoparticle impregnation on the density and dimensional stability of mangium and the effectiveness of the presence of TiO(2) nanoparticle in wood in degrading pollutants. The mangium samples (2 cm × 2 cm × 2 cm) were placed inside impregnation tube. The impregnation solutions included water (untreated), 1% TiO(2) nanoparticle, and 5% TiO(2) nanoparticles. The samples were analyzed for density, weight percent gain (WPG) dan bulking effect (BE). Samples were also analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). TiO(2) nanoparticle resulted in an increase in density, WPG, and BE-treated mangium. Based on XRD and FTIR results, TiO(2) nanoparticle was successfully impregnated into mangium wood. Scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis indicated that TiO(2) nanoparticle covered the surface of the wood cells. The TiO(2)-impregnated mangium wood has a higher photocatalyst activity than untreated, indicating better protection from UV radiation and pollutants.