Acetylated wood in constructions

Abstract

The durability and resistance of wood and wood products to fungi, insects, and moisture, can be increased and obtained by using the appropriate protective agents and various processing techniques. One of the procedures for improving the durability of wood is the acetylation of wood, a chemical modification process, with liquid acetic anhydride which changes the physical, mechanical, and aesthetic properties. Because small hydroxyl groups are substituted with larger acetyl groups, the ability of wood to absorb water is significantly reduced and the wood becomes considerably more stable and very durable. This paper presents the characteristics, advantages, and application areas of acetylated wood in construction.