Wood modification with phenol urea formaldehyde (PUF) resin: the influence of wood species selection on the dimensional stability

Abstract

AbstractWood modification is an excellent way to improve material properties, prolong service life, and pave the way for new applications for timber in the built environment. The aim of this study is to establish the influence of wood species in the modification process with phenol urea formaldehyde resin. Seven hardwoods and four softwoods were compared in an identical treatment. Since the wood species is the main variable, the study provides a clear insight as to its influence on modification—something not previously investigated. Small wood blocks of all eleven species were impregnated with low-molecular weight phenol urea formaldehyde resin and were subsequently heat-cured at 150 °C. Mass and dimensions of specimens were carefully monitored throughout three cycles of oven-drying and water-soaking to determine anti-swelling efficiency, bulking coefficient, and swelling coefficient. The results showed a clear relationship between density, bulking-, and swelling coefficients. Beyond this well-known relationship it was observed that species with similar density (e.g., lime and sycamore) had significantly different bulking coefficients and anti-swelling efficiencies. Reasons for these differences, which are independent of density, are discussed. The soaking solution was analysed to determine the nature of leached substances showing a correlation between the amount of leachate and the UV-absorbance (272 nm) of the solution.