Abstract
In this study, we investigated the effects of two-step freezing-heat treatments on the technological properties of Japanese Raisintree (Hovenia dulcis Thunb.) wood. Three treatments were performed and compared to an untreated control: freezing (WF), freezing followed by heat (WFT), and heat treatment (WT). The freezing treatment and the heat treatment were performed at -22°C for 24 h and 180°C for 3.5 h, respectively. Chemical composition was evaluated by TAPPI standards and ATR-IR; physical changes were investigated with dimensional stability and water uptake tests, while mechanical properties were evaluated by impact strength. Color and roughness tests were also performed. The main results showed no significant changes to the chemical structure of the wood. Dimensional stability and water repellence increased up to 14% after the thermal treatments. On the other hand, maximum impact strength decreased significantly, especially in the WT treatment (∼50%). Lightness (L*) was the colorimetric parameter most affected by the thermal treatments, mainly in the treatments with a heating step. Surface roughness remained stable after thermal treatments.
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