The effects of heat treatment on physical properties of Uludag fir (Abies bornmuelleriana Mattf.) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) wood

Heat treatment is often used to improve the dimensional stability of wood. In this study, the effects of heat treatment on physical properties of Uludag fir (Abies bornmuelleriana Mattf.) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) wood were examined. These conifer species are useful and common in Turkey. Samples obtained from Bolu Forest Enterprises, Turkey, were subjected to heat treatment at varying temperatures and for varying durations. The physical properties of heat-treated and control samples were tested, and ovendry density, air-dry density, and swelling properties were determined. Heat treatment diminished all of the physical properties, resulting in higher dimensional stability of heat-treated samples.