Principal investigators: Eric Musselman and David Dinehart
University: Villanova University
Industry partner: Bingaman & Son Lumber, Inc.
Thermal modification is a process that improves both the dimensional stability and durability of wood through exposure to high temperatures, typically between 160 and 240 C. The species of wood and the initial moisture content affect the required time and temperature to effectively process the wood. Bingaman & Son currently produces thermally modified wood but does not have a cost-effective method for validating the effectiveness of the process for each batch. The objective of this project is to correlate multiple material properties with the durability and dimensional stability of thermally treated lumber to determine which property (or properties) are both easily measurable and strong indicators of performance. This would allow Bingaman & Son to certify the performance of each batch of thermally modified wood providing a competitive advantage for their products manufactured with sustainably sourced Pennsylvania hardwood.