Physico-chemical modifications refer to changes at the physical and chemical levels that occur during the formation of agarwood resin inside the tree. These modifications are triggered by wounding, stress, infection, or artificial inoculation, and they are critical to the quality, aroma, and oil content of the final product.
Physico-Chemical Modifications in Agarwood Formation
Physical Modifications:
- Cell Wall Damage: Injury (mechanical or biological) causes the breakdown of wood cell structures.
- Formation of Resin Ducts: New channels or cavities form inside the tree where resin can accumulate.
- Discoloration: Infected or stressed wood changes color from pale white to dark brown or black due to resin accumulation.
Chemical Modifications:
- Production of Secondary Metabolites: The tree produces chemicals like sesquiterpenes and chromones, key components of agarwood’s fragrance.
- Oxidation: Natural oxidation processes alter the chemical structure of wood compounds, leading to aromatic resin formation.
- Polymerization: Small chemical units (monomers) in the wood bond together to form complex structures, giving the resin its viscosity and color.
Main Chemical Compounds Formed
- Sesquiterpenes (like agarol, agarospirol) – responsible for the woody scent.
- Chromones – responsible for the sweet, balsamic notes.
- Phenolics – antioxidant compounds, contributing to fragrance and wood preservation.
What Causes These Modifications?
- Biological Factors: Fungal infection (like Fusarium oxysporum, Phaeoacremonium parasiticum).
- Mechanical Factors: Drilling, cutting, or natural breakage.
- Chemical Induction: Use of chemical inducers like BarIno FusaTrinity™ or other proprietary blends.
- Environmental Stress: Drought, lightning strikes, or other stresses can also initiate agarwood formation.