The effect of beech wood (Fagus sylvatica L.) steaming process on the colour change versus depth of tested wood layer

Abstract

ABSTRACT The results of experimental research on the colour changes of beech wood at different depths of the tested layer are presented. Beech wood (Fagus sylvatica L.) dried in a conventional kiln was tested. Half of the wood samples were steamed prior to the drying process. Colour changes were measured at various depths after the face milling process was used to remove the material to expose to the deeper surface. The colour changes were measured based on the three-axis CIELAB system, recommended by CIE (Comission Internationale de l'Eclairage) and according to ISO 11664-2 and ISO 11664-4 standards. As a result of the analysis, four parameters were determined: the colour changes (), the colour chroma (C ab), the hue angle (h) and the colour saturation (S ab). The performed experimental research revealed that the surface of steamed wood is more susceptible to colour change. A significant colour change in both steamed and dried wood occurs only up to a depth of about 2 mm.