Wood Surface Modification with Hybrid Materials Based on Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Wood Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Oak wood is susceptible to degradation from moisture, aging, and biological factors, limiting its long-term structural integrity.
• Conventional wood treatments often fall short in providing comprehensive protection against multiple degradation pathways.
• Nanomaterials offer potential for advanced wood consolidation and protection due to their unique properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate novel wood treatments using decorated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) dispersed in a PHBHV solution.
• To assess the efficacy of these treatments in improving the mechanical properties, water resistance, and durability of oak wood.
• To investigate the antifungal activity and performance under accelerated aging conditions.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of wood treatments using MWCNTs, MWCNTs decorated with ZnO, HAp, and Ag nanoparticles in PHBHV solution.
• Evaluation of treatments through colorimetric measurements, water absorption tests, mechanical testing, and artificial aging.
• Assessment of antifungal efficacy against mold and fungi.

Main Results:

• All treated oak wood samples showed improved water absorption, humidity resistance, and mechanical properties compared to untreated controls.
• Treatments applied by brushing resulted in more uniform and thicker protective layers, enhancing performance.
• The MWCNTs_ZnO + PHBHV nanocomposite at 0.2% concentration demonstrated the best performance, offering significant antifungal activity and protection against degradation.
• Treated wood exhibited moderate stability with no visually perceptible color changes.

Conclusions:

• Decorated MWCNTs dispersed in PHBHV solution are effective wood consolidants, enhancing mechanical strength and water barrier properties.
• The MWCNTs_ZnO + PHBHV treatment at 0.2% concentration, applied by brushing, provides optimal protection for sound oak wood.
• These novel treatments contribute to maintaining the structural integrity of oak wood by preventing degradation from moisture, aging, and biological agents.