RESEARCH INTO SORPTION AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF NATURAL AND MODIFIED BIRCH WOOD

The research presented examined wood treatment at high temperatures. Wood specimens were tested at an original working station. In order to increase the durability, environmental resistance and size and shape stability of wood products, the wood underwent a modification process. One modification method included high-temperature heating (140-230 degrees C). Exposure to heat contributed to changes in the chemical composition and physical and mechanical properties of the wood. In addition, assortments of natural and modified birch wood were studied. The sorption properties of the wood were evaluated during the moistening and drying processes. The resonance vibration method was used to assess the modulus of elasticity and the coefficient of damping. The specimens were tested by subjecting them to 3-hour heating at temperatures of 120, 150, 180 and 210 degrees C and soaking them in water afterwards. It was found that the modulus of elasticity of the heated wood increased by 12% and the coefficient of damping decreased by 40%. It was established that the amounts of water absorbed by the heated wood were 5 times smaller in comparison to the natural wood.