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Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the preparation and application of FeCl₃ (Ferric Chloride) Inoculant for Agarwood resin induction.
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE (SOP)
Title: Preparation & Application of Ferric Chloride (FeCl₃) Inoculant for Agarwood Resin Induction
Code: SOP-AGW-FeCl₃-001
Version: 1.0
Effective Date: [Insert Date]
Prepared by: [Insert Name/Organization]
Approved by: [Insert Supervisor/Manager]
1. Purpose:
To standardize the preparation and field application of Ferric Chloride (FeCl₃) solution as a chemical inducer for agarwood (Aquilaria spp.) resin formation.
2. Scope:
This SOP applies to all technical staff and field personnel involved in artificial agarwood induction using abiotic stress agents.
3. Materials and Equipment:
| Item | Specification/Notes |
|---|---|
| Ferric Chloride (FeCl₃ · 6H₂O) | Analytical grade or equivalent |
| De-ionized Water | Clean and sterile |
| Measuring Scale | Precision ±1 g |
| Mixing container | Acid-resistant plastic or glass |
| Stirring rod or magnetic stirrer | For uniform dissolution |
| Optional: Tween-20 | Surfactant for better penetration |
| Syringe/Injector or Pipette | For application |
| Electric drill | 6–10 mm bit |
| Protective Gear (PPE) | Gloves, goggles, mask |
| Clean sealing materials | Cotton, wax, or natural plug |
| Label and marker | For storage and identification |
4. Formulation:
| Concentration | FeCl₃ (grams) | Di-ionized Water (mL) |
|---|---|---|
| 5% w/v | 50 g | 1000 mL |
| 10% w/v | 100 g | 1000 mL |
Optional: Add 1–2 mL of Tween-20 per liter to improve uptake.
5. Preparation Procedure:
- Wear PPE (gloves, goggles, mask) before handling chemicals.
- Weigh 50–100 g of FeCl₃ · 6H₂O using a precision scale.
- Pour 1 liter of di-ionized water into a clean mixing container.
- Slowly add FeCl₃ to the water while stirring constantly until fully dissolved.
- Optional: Add 1–2 mL of Tween-20, mix well.
- Transfer the solution to labeled, airtight, acid-resistant bottles.
- Store in a cool, shaded area. Use within 1 month of preparation.
6. Application Protocol:
Tree Requirements:
- Species: Aquilaria malaccensis or related
- Age: 5 years and older
- Healthy and disease-free preferred
Drilling and Inoculation:
- Drill holes (6–10 mm diameter, 5–10 cm deep) at 10–15 cm intervals along the trunk.
- Inject 3–5 mL of FeCl₃ solution into each hole.
- Seal holes using sterile cotton or wax to prevent leakage and contamination.
- Avoid application during heavy rains or high temperature periods.
- Monitor trees monthly for resin formation signs (discoloration, aroma, resin exudates).
7. Storage & Disposal:
- Store unused FeCl₃ solution in sealed containers, away from sunlight and heat.
- Dispose of leftover solution and contaminated materials according to local environmental regulations.
- Do not pour into waterways or soil.
8. Safety and First Aid:
| Hazard | Precaution |
|---|---|
| Corrosive chemical | Wear gloves and eye protection |
| Skin/eye contact | Rinse immediately with plenty of water, seek medical attention |
| Inhalation | Use mask or work in well-ventilated area |
9. Documentation and Reporting:
- Record inoculation date, tree code, solution batch number, and operator name.
- Conduct follow-up inspections every 3 months and record observations.
- Report adverse reactions or unexpected tree damage to supervisor immediately.
10. Revision History:
| Version | Date | Changes Made | Approved By |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | [Insert Date] | Initial implementation | [Name] |