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Dimensionally stable and durable wood by lignin impregnation

  • 0Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China.
International Journal of Biological Macromolecules +

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April 25, 2024

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April 25, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

This study introduces a green method using lignin, a biopolymer, to enhance wood stability and durability. The treatment significantly reduces swelling and moisture absorption, improving wood

Area Of Science

  • Materials Science
  • Wood Science
  • Green Chemistry

Background

  • Natural wood suffers from dimensional instability and degradation (cracking, warping, decay).
  • Sustainable chemical treatments are needed to improve wood performance.
  • Lignin, a biopolymer, offers a promising eco-friendly solution for wood modification.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To develop a facile method for enhancing wood dimensional stability and durability using lignin.
  • To investigate the impact of lignin incorporation on wood's anti-swelling, moisture absorption, decay resistance, and micromechanics.

Main Methods

  • Dissolving enzymatic hydrolysis lignin (EHL) in solvents.
  • Impregnating wood cells with EHL solution followed by drying.
  • Analyzing EHL distribution and wood property changes using microscopy (SEM, fluorescent, Raman) and spectroscopy (FTIR, XPS), along with nanoindentation.

Main Results

  • Achieved 99.4% anti-swelling efficiency and reduced moisture absorption to 0.55%.
  • Decreased mass loss from brown rot decay to 7.22% and enhanced cell wall elasticity and hardness.
  • Confirmed successful EHL colonization in cell lumens and walls, with evidence of interaction with cell wall components and slight mechanical enhancement.

Conclusions

  • The facile lignin incorporation method significantly improves wood's dimensional stability, durability, and mechanical properties.
  • This approach enhances outdoor performance of modified wood products.
  • Utilizing lignin as a natural modifier provides substantial environmental benefits.

Keywords:

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