Joint Durability of Steam-Treated Beech Wood

Abstract

Steaming beech wood is one of the most commonly used eco-based processes for wood color equilibration. In addition to color equalization, steaming has also been noticed to stabilize the final product (solid wood panels). The beech wood samples used in this study were steamed for two different periods. PVAc and polyurethane (PU) adhesives were used to analyze bonding strength and durability. The bonding strength was measured according to the EN 13354 standard. The samples were treated before testing according to the first part of the standard, i.e., immersion in water. The durability of the bonded joint was tested according to the ISO 9142 standard. The samples were treated before testing with two methods. The results of the bonding strength show the influence of the steaming process on the bonded joint. Short exposure to steam decreased bonding strength, and prolonged exposure increased bonding strength. From the results given and the statistical analysis, it can be concluded that a prolonged steaming period increases the stability of the beech wood and thus the durability of the bonded joints.