The present study aims to investigate the influence of heat treatment on physical and mechanical properties of Oriental beech wood (Fagus orientalis Lipsky.). Samples were exposed to temperature levels of 130˚C, 160˚C, and 190˚C for 3, 6, and 9 h. Selected physical and mechanical properties including compression strength parallel to grain, compression strength perpendicular to grain, bending strength, modulus of elasticity in bending, tension strength perpendicular to grain, Janka-hardness, shear strength, density, and swelling were determined following heat treatments. Results indicated that mechanical properties are the function of temperature and duration of modification. Modified samples show lower mechanical properties compared to the control ones. Overall, as temperatures and residence time increase, mechanical properties, swelling, and density of treated wood decrease.

Download document (364 kb)
free for the members of IRG. Available if purchased.

Purchase this document