TY  - EJOU
AU  - Nwoanjia, John 
AU  - Biwôlé, Jean Jalin Eyinga 
AU  - Mfomo, Joseph Zobo 
AU  - Fongnzossie, Evariste Fedoung 
AU  - Pizzi, Antonio 
AU  - Essiane, Salomé Ndjakomo 
AU  - Biwole, Achille Bernard 

TI  - Physical, Mechanical and Chemical Properties as a Decision-Support Tool to Promote Alternative Woods: Case of Dabema (<i>Piptadeniastrum africanum</i>) in Cameroon
T2  - Journal of Renewable Materials

PY  - 2025
VL  - 13
IS  - 5
SN  - 2164-6341

AB  - This review aims to identify the assets and limitations of Dabema <i>(Piptadeniastrum africanum)</i> as a sustainable alternative to traditional timber species for furniture and construction applications. Dabema is characterized by its high density and dimensional stability, meeting ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards for mechanical strength, which is essential for promoting its use. However, its limited availability in trade and ingrained habits of use are obstacles to its widespread commercialization. In addition, thermal and oleothermal treatments have shown great potential for improving the characteristics of this wood, although they require ongoing optimization and rigorous environmental assessment. Consequently, increased awareness of the benefits of Dabema is decisive to encourage its sustainable adoption in modern economies. This could help to diversify forest resources and encourage more sustainable building practices, taking advantage of Dabema’s unique properties while mitigating environmental sustainability concerns.
KW  - Dabema <i>(Piptadeniastrum africanum)</i>; alternative woods; physical properties; mechanical properties; chemical properties

DO  - 10.32604/jrm.2025.02024-0005