The effects of supercritical carbon dioxide on wood strength were evaluated using white spruce heartwood, a species known to be especially susceptible to collapse during exposure to higher pressures. The effects of pressures of 2000 or 3600 psig and temperatures of 40 or 80°C were evaluated using 30 or 60 minute exposure periods. No significant differences were noted in modulus of rupture or modulus of elasticity between specimens treated with supercritical fluid at selected pressures, temperatures or exposure periods or between treated and untreated control samples. Furthermore, no evidence of crushing or deformation were noted in specimens exposed to higher pressures. These results indicate that exposure to supercritical conditions should not adversely affect material properties of spruce.

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