Abstract
An industrial-scale thermal modification method for wood has been developed in Finland at VTT together with Finnish industry. The Finnish thermal modification method is based on heating the wood material for a few hours at high temperatures over 180°C under normal pressure while protecting it with water vapour. Thermal modification changes the chemical and physical properties of wood. During thermal modification the colour of wood darkens, the dimensional stability enhances, equilibrium moisture content reduces and the biological durability increases. On the other hand, as a result of thermal modification, the wood becomes more brittle and bending and tension strength decrease in relation to the level of heat-treatment. Thermally modified wood is used in many applications, where enhanced dimensional stability and biological durability are required. Also, the brown colour of the thermally modified wood is experienced as a benefit in furnishing. There are plenty of good experiences of using thermally modified timber in many different applications like exterior cladding, decking, flooring, garden furniture, panelling, kitchen furnishing and the interiors of bathrooms and saunas.
Original language | English |
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Number of pages | 6 |
Publication status | Published - 2006 |
MoE publication type | Not Eligible |
Event | Wood Protection 2006 - New Orleans, United States Duration: 21 Mar 2006 → 23 Mar 2006 |
Conference
Conference | Wood Protection 2006 |
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Country/Territory | United States |
City | New Orleans |
Period | 21/03/06 → 23/03/06 |