Advancements in Wood Identification: Evaluating Spectral Collection Strategies for Identifying Dalbergia Species Using Handheld LIBS.

Dalbergia spp., commonly known as rosewood, is a highly valued timber species with high demand and significant commercial importance. However, the illegal trade of rosewood has been on the rise, leading to a threat to the species’ existence. Therefore, identifying the exact species of rosewood becomes crucial in curbing its illicit trade. In this article, we explore the potential of handheld Laser-induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) as a promising technique for the identification of different species of Dalbergia.


Using handheld laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) to evaluate different spectral collection strategies for identifying Dalbergia species is a significant breakthrough in wood identification. Dalbergia trees are popular for their high-quality wood used in furniture, musical instruments, and other applications. However, illegal harvesting and trade practices have led to overexploitation and damage to their natural habitats. Therefore, identifying the species of Dalbergia wood is crucial for enforcing trade regulations and protecting the species. The researchers evaluated two spectral collection strategies – spot-by-spot approach and raster-scanning approach – and found that both methods were accurate in identifying Dalbergia species with over 90% accuracy. However, the spot-by-spot approach was faster and required less computational power. Therefore, it is the preferred method for rapid identification of Dalbergia species in the field. This study indicates the potential of handheld LIBS as a tool for enforcing trade regulations and protecting endangered species, and it could be used to quickly identify species of wood at ports of entry, thereby preventing illegal trade of endangered species. Overall, this represents a significant step forward in wood identification, improving the accuracy and efficiency of species identification and promoting sustainable trade practices.


In conclusion, the use of handheld laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy can greatly enhance the identification of Dalbergia spp. This technology offers a rapid and effective solution to the challenges faced by forestry officials and law enforcement agencies in combating the illegal trade in endangered woods. By accurately identifying the species of illegally traded timbers, authorities can better enforce regulations and protect the world’s forests from further devastation. The potential of this technology is immense, and with continued research and development, we can ensure that our efforts to preserve the environment are successful.