Leveraging Academic Expertise for Scientific Advancement in the Agarwood Industry
Overview
The partnership between De La Salle University (DLSU) aims to develop scientifically-backed techniques for Agarwood cultivation, resin extraction, and quality standards. This collaboration with DLSU’s cutting-edge research capabilities to drive innovation, sustainability, and commercial viability in the Philippine Agarwood industry.
Key Focus Areas
1️⃣ Advanced Agarwood Cultivation & Propagation
Tissue Culture & Organogenesis Research
- Developing high-efficiency propagation methods to produce disease-resistant and fast-growing Agarwood trees.
- Establishing a biotechnology lab for mass propagation of superior Agarwood seedlings.
Sustainable Agroforestry Systems
- Integrating Agarwood with other high-value crops for sustainable and profitable farming.
- Conducting soil health assessments and optimizing irrigation & fertilization techniques.
2️⃣ Artificial Resin Induction & Quality Enhancement
Biochemical Studies on Resin Formation
- Identifying optimal environmental conditions and biological triggers for resin production.
- Studying fungal inoculation techniques to induce natural agarwood resin formation.
Innovative Resin Induction Methods
- Developing non-destructive resin extraction techniques to preserve tree health.
- Experimenting with bio-stimulants and precision wounding methods for enhanced yield.
3️⃣ Extraction Technologies & Standardization of Oud Oil Quality
Supercritical CO₂ Extraction & Hydro-Distillation
- Comparing different extraction techniques to maximize oil yield and purity.
- Enhancing solvent-free, high-efficiency oil extraction methods.
Chemical Profiling & Quality Control
- Developing standardized quality grading for Philippine Oud oil based on GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) analysis.
- Setting national standards for essential oil purity, fragrance notes, and therapeutic properties.
4️⃣ Commercialization & Industry Adoption
Tech Transfer to Local Farmers & Cooperatives
- Conducting hands-on training programs to educate farmers on scientific propagation and resin induction.
- Establishing pilot farms to showcase innovative cultivation techniques.
Intellectual Property & Business Development
- Filing patents for novel Agarwood propagation and resin extraction technologies.
- Facilitating start-ups and commercial partnerships for technology commercialization.
Expected Outcomes
✅ Improved Agarwood tree survival rates & resin yield
✅ High-quality oud oil that meets international fragrance industry standards
✅ Increased profitability for Filipino Agarwood farmers
✅ Philippines’ recognition as a leading Agarwood research hub
✅ Strong university-industry partnerships for long-term sector growth