Engineered Wood Products from Planted Tropical Timber Species

Engineered wood products (EWP) have gained popularity and recognition in Malaysia’s construction industry. These products refer to a category of wood products that are manufactured by bonding or combining wood strands, veneers, or fibers with adhesives to create a stronger and more stable material compared to solid wood. In Malaysia, the use of EWP, such as plywood, laminated veneer lumber, glued laminated timber, and particleboard, has been growing steadily. These products offer several advantages over traditional solid wood, including improved strength, dimensional stability, and resistance to warping and splitting. EWP is also often used as a sustainable alternative to solid wood because it utilizes smaller, fast-growing trees and reduces waste. EWP find applications in various construction projects, including residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. They are commonly used for interior and exterior structural elements, such as beams, columns, trusses, and flooring systems. EWP, such as plywood and particleboard, are also used extensively for wall and roof sheathing, furniture manufacturing, and decorative applications. The Malaysian construction industry has recognized the benefits of EWP in terms of cost-effectiveness, design flexibility, and environmental sustainability. As a result, there has been increased adoption of these products in both large-scale projects and smaller construction ventures