Classification of agarwood (gaharu) by resin content

Agarwood or gaharu is a fragrant resinous heartwood that can develop in diseased trees from the genus aquilaria (thymelaeaceae). the wood is often classified into various grades according to the colour, density, gaharu formation and scent. these parameters are very subjective and depend on individual perception. in this study, several grades of gaharu wood from natural sources and inoculated materials were evaluated for resin content and the data classified using z-score transformation technique. the results demonstrated that resin content could be used as a guide for the classification of gaharu, thus assisting the industry to reduce bias judgement among traders.