Surface topography analysis of Cedrela sinensis and Korean Paulownia boards using stylus and 3D optical profilometry

This study evaluated the effects of planning methods—pushing and pulling—on the surface topographic characteristics of Cedrela sinensis and Korean Paulownia wood boards according to ISO 25178 standards. Surface roughness was assessed using a stylus profilometer (Mitutoyo SJ301) and a 3D Optical Profilometer (VR-6000, Keyence). The parameters measured included arithmetical mean height (R_a and S_a), root mean square roughness (R_q), average maximum height of the surface (R_z and S_z), texture aspect ratio (S_tr), the spatial parameter of the surface (S_pc), and developed interfacial area ratio (S_dr). These parameters collectively provide a comprehensive description of a surface’s texture, aiding in assessing its roughness, directionality, and functional characteristics. On average, Cedrela sinensis push-finished surfaces showed R_a of 16.78 μm, while pull-finished surfaces showed R_a of 11.22 μm. For Paulownia, push-finished surfaces had R_a of 6.04 μm, while pull-finished surfaces had R_a of 5.83 μm. Statistical t-test results showed no significant differences between push and pull planning methods (p > 0.05). The surface roughness analysis reveals that Cedrela sinensis surfaces exhibit higher roughness, more significant height variations, and more complex textures than Paulownia. These findings are valuable for the woodworking industry, offering insights into optimizing planning methods for specific wood species and applications.