 |
Practically inexistent
moisture content |
|
Torrefied wood has practically no (close
to 0%) internal moisture and will not reabsorb moisture
from the air or surface runoff since its hygroscopic properties
are altered by the heating process.
|
|
| Dimensional stability |
|
Torrefied wood will not shrink, swell
or warp with changing weather and moisture conditions.
It is therefore ideal for precision applications such
as furniture, doors and windows.
|
|
| Resistance to biodegradation |
|
Torrefied wood is resistant to fungi and
moulds, which mark and degrade wood, because fungi and
moulds require a moisture content of at least 20% to develop.
|
|
| Resistance to insect pests |
|
Because torrefaction kills the cells on
which wood insects and parasites feed, torrefied wood
is never attacked by pests, an important feature for the
North American and European market, where termite damage
is a major concern.
|
|
| Chemical free treatment process |
|
Torrefaction uses no chemicals or toxic
substances. The production and use of torrefied wood is
therefore perfectly safe and in compliance with the most
stringent environmental and export standards. Moreover,
torrefied wood unlike chemically treated wood can be safely
handled, transported and processed immediately.
|
|
| Treated through to the core |
|
Unlike, chemical treatment, which protects
only the surface layer of the wood, torrefaction affects
the entire piece of wood through to the core. Torrefied
wood can, therefore, be processed, cut or sanded, without
loosing any of its properties. Cut ends remain protected,
and scratches and cracks are essentially invisible.
|
|
| A variety of hues and consistent
colour |
|
Torrefaction can enrich the hue and appearance
of practically all species, which opens up new possibilities
for many species that have never been considered esthetically
pleasing.
|
|
