Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) for quantification of cell-wall penetration of a melamine resin

A literature survey was performed to find progress in techniques for monitoring penetration of synthetic resins in wood cell walls. Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) in combination with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was successfully applied for the high resolution examination of the distribution of a partly methylated hydroxymethyl melamine resin in Norway spruce (Picea abies Karst.) earlywood cell walls. The nitrogen of the resin was found as clearly detectable signals in all layers of the lignified cell wall, thus allowing the quantification of resin which had penetrated into the different layers. Possible principles of decay protection of wood which has been upgraded with low concentrated aqueous solutions of modified hydroxymethyl melamine resins with medium to low hydroxymethyl/melamine ratios are discussed.