FTIR spectroscopy and technological characterization of heat treated Fraxinus excelsior wood
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Abstract
Background: The heat treatment of wood between 160 and 260ºC results in the partial degradation of its chemical constituents and alterations in its structure due to the heat exposure. This technology aims to enhance dimensional stability and increase resistance to biodeterioration, resulting in a final product with higher added value. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of heat treatment on the physical, anatomical, chemical and mechanical properties of Fraxinus excelsior In untreated and heat treated wood, the pH, buffering capacity, basic density, equilibrium moisture content, shrinkage, wood anatomy, thermogravimetric behavior and chemistry by conventional and FTIR methods were determined.
Results: Heat treated wood had lower pH, equilibrium moisture content, shrinkage and holocellulose contents and higher buffering capacity, extractives and lignin contents. Heat treatment reduced the pH and increased the buffering capacity of the wood, reduced the holocellulose content and increased the lignin content, leaving the wood less hygroscopic and reducing its volumetric and linear variation. The process did not change the basic density and fiber length, but it reduced their width, lumen diameter and wall thickness. Through FTIR analysis, it was possible to verify the degradation of holocellulose and division of aliphatic side chains in lignin. The maximum dredging range of untreated and heat treated wood occurred at 350 ºC, and the heat treated wood had a higher residual mass when subjected to 500 ºC.
Conclusion: Heat treated wood can be indicated for products for external environments, such as floors, fences, coatings, door and window structures.
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