For 55 years now, the DOST Forest Products Research and Development Institute has been helping players in the construction and wood-based industries test how strong their materials are and how fit these are for different uses and conditions. Thru its Physics and Mechanics Testing Laboratory, FPRDI evaluates the physical and strength properties of concrete hollow blocks, concrete cylinder, pallets, lumber and non-wood forest products such as bamboo and rattan. “Our clients ask us to assess their products as a requirement of their buyers. We base our tests on international standards that include the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), and use modern equipment to ensure that we offer the best service to our customers,” says Ms. Elvina O. Bondad, Chief of the Physics and Mechanics Section. “The test results will tell buyers whether or not their materials are suitable for their intended purposes.” ...Read more

In response to the call for a greener environment, the DOST’s Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI) offers an eco-friendly technology for the wooden pallet industry. The Institute’s Furnace Type Heat Treatment Facility (FHTF) can provide the heat needed to kill insects and other pests infesting wood packaging materials (WPMs) such as wooden pallets. WPMs are commonly used in transporting commodities around the globe as they are relatively cheaper than plastic and metal containers. However, WPMs made of unprocessed wood are vulnerable to pest attacks and can introduce and spread pests from one country to another. In 2002, the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) adopted the Guidelines for Regulating Wood Packaging Material in International Trade or the ISPM 15, which requires all WPMs to undergo heat treatment or methyl bromide (MB) fumigation and consequently, be stamped with the IPPC seal. ...Read more

An FPRDI bleaching method for nito products helped the Dela Cruz House of Piña earn Php 2.8 million in revenues in 2004. “This was a big improvement from the previous years’ revenues when we depended only on our naturally dark nito products,” reported company manager Ms. Libradiat D. Damondon. “From the bleached nito we were able to create new colors for the products. Because of this, we hope to attract more buyers. ...Read more

The Anao Ylang-ylang Multi-purpose Cooperative in Anao, Tarlac is all set to conquer the Korean market, thanks to an improved 100-kg capacity essential oil extractor from FPRDI. ...Read more