The changes of mechanical properties after the heat treatment.

The project aims to clarify the impact of moisture on mechanical properties of thermally treated beech wood (Fagus sylvatica L.), as well as to quantify the changes in the basic physical properties after thermal treatment. Mechanical properties (in bending, tension, compression and the torsion) will be tested at different moisture content (0, 5, 10, 15 %) so as to determine the effect of humidity. Regarding physical properties, the project focuses on the equilibrium moisture content, density change and swelling of treated wood. The actual thermal treatment will be carried out at different temperatures and times in order to capture an impact of these factors on the final properties.