Effect of Thermal Compression Treatment on the Surface Hardness, Vertical Density Propile and Thickness Swelling of Eucalyptus Wood Boards by Hot-pressing

Abstract

Thermal treatment techniques are used for modifying wood and wood-based materials to improve dimensional stability and hygroscopicity. This study investigated the effects of press pressure and temperature on density, vertical density profile, thickness swelling and surface hardness of eucalyptus wood boards. The experimental wood boards were prepared from Turkish River Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehn.). The surface hardness value increased with increasing press pressure in the treated groups. The application of a higher pressure at the same temperature level increased the amount of swelling of wood. It means that it is not needed for application of higher pressure to enhance the dimensional stability of wood. It is expected that it is possible to produce increased hardness, dimensional stability and durability by application of hot pressing treatment. This research showed that different press pressure and temperature values should be used to improve the performance properties of eucalyptus wood so that the end-use of the wood materials could be expanded.