Abstract
Moisture in wood exists in two basic forms: bound water within the cell wall and free water in liquid form in the voids of the wood. An equilibrium is attained between the bound-water content of the wood and the relative humidity of the surrounding air such that at a relative humidity of 0% the wood moisture content is essentially zero. This equilibrium moisture content gradually increases with the relative humidity until the cell wall becomes saturated when the relative humidity approaches 100%. Beyond this point, called the fiber saturation point, additional water is in the free form. An equilibrium also exists between wood and moist soil in contact with it where the equilibrium moisture content includes free water. Green wood contains free water which is removed by exposing it to warm, dry air. The presence of free water in wood drastically increases its decay susceptibility.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
