Here’s a detailed guide on proper storage of harvested agarwood to maintain resin quality, aroma, and longevity:
1. Objectives of Proper Storage
- Preserve resin chemical integrity and aroma.
- Prevent mold, fungal growth, insect infestation, or oxidation.
- Protect wood from physical and environmental damage.
- Maintain traceability and commercial value.
2. Key Storage Parameters
A. Humidity Control
- Ideal relative humidity: 40–60%.
- Too high → promotes mold, decay, and insect growth.
- Too low → may cause cracking, resin loss, and excessive drying.
- Practical tips:
- Store in ventilated rooms or racks.
- Use silica gel, moisture absorbers, or controlled-environment chambers for sensitive batches.
B. Oxygen Exposure
- Excess oxygen can oxidize aromatic compounds over time.
- Minimize air contact:
- Wrap high-grade logs in vacuum-sealed or airtight bags/containers.
- For large logs, store in covered racks with good airflow but limited direct air contact.
- Avoid compressed storage that damages resin streaks.
C. UV Protection
- Direct sunlight degrades resin and changes wood color.
- Store logs in:
- Shaded, indoor environments.
- UV-filtered containers or covers if outdoors.
- Even short-term exposure can reduce aroma quality of high-grade resin.
3. Storage Best Practices
| Parameter | Recommended Approach | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Humidity | 40–60%, ventilated, avoid wet floors | Use pallets/racks, moisture absorbers if needed |
| Oxygen Exposure | Limited air contact, vacuum-sealing for small logs | Prevents oxidation and resin degradation |
| UV Protection | Store in shade or indoors; use UV-filtered covers | Avoid direct sunlight even during short periods |
| Pest Monitoring | Inspect logs periodically | Use physical barriers or non-toxic repellents |
| Elevation | Logs off ground using pallets or racks | Prevents soil moisture absorption |
| Separation | Sort by resin grade and tree ID | Reduces cross-contamination |
4. Additional Recommendations
- Periodic inspection: Check for mold, cracks, or insect damage every 1–2 weeks.
- Airflow balance: Ensure proper circulation while avoiding direct drafts that could dry wood unevenly.
- Segregation: Store high-grade heartwood separately from mid- or low-grade material.
- Documentation: Record harvest date, storage conditions, resin grade, and tree source.
Key Principle: Proper storage is about balancing moisture, air, and light protection to maintain the aroma, chemical profile, and structural integrity of agarwood over time.
I can also create a diagram showing ideal storage setup, with elevated racks, shaded environment, airflow, and humidity/oxygen/UV protection annotations, suitable for a field manual or SOP.
Do you want me to make that diagram?