The effect of thermal treatment on physical and mechanical properties of Luehea divaricata hardwood

This study aimed to characterise the effect of thermal treatment on physical and mechanical properties of açoita-cavalo (Luehea divaricata) wood. To achieve this, samples were treated at 160, 180 and 200°C for 2 h in an oven (dry conditions). Physical and mechanical characterisation was performed by weight loss, dry specific gravity at 12%, equilibrium moisture content, volumetric swelling and shrinkage, water absorption, water repellence, static bending and brittleness tests. Roughness and colour tests were performed in order to evaluate the modified surface. Main findings showed that dimensional stability of thermally modified wood increased, while mechanical strength of wood decreased as a function of temperature. A darkening of wood and a decrease in roughness were observed.