WOOD

Wood is a natural composite material, prized for its strength and individuality, yet inherently variable and irreproducible. A niche material, it remains timeless as trees grow regardless of history.

Processing of Wood: A. Wood Extraction; B. Log Allocation; C. Wood Sawing; D. Pulpwood; E. Planks and Boards; F. Treatment of Sawn Timber; G. Larger residues (wood chips); H. Sent to the paper industry; I. Finer residues (shavings and dry chips); J. Residues for bioenergy production.

History

Wood has been an essential material for humans throughout history, used for building shelters, crafting tools, and constructing ships. Over the centuries, its role expanded into more complex applications, from carvings to large-scale construction. The industrial revolution introduced machines that made processing faster and more efficient, turning wood into a staple for mass production. Wood is also a unique material in that it continues to grow and renew itself, regardless of wars or economic crises, forests follow their natural cycle, and wood remains available. Today, advancements like cross-laminated timber (CLT), laminated veneer lumber (LVL) and glulam have pushed the boundaries of what wood can do, allowing it to be used in contemporary, large-scale building projects.

Composition and Structure

Wood is made up of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, which give it a combination of strength, flexibility, and lightweight properties. Its fibers are arranged differently depending on the species, which affects its appearance and performance. Features like growth rings, sapwood, and heartwood give wood its character and determine how it behaves under different conditions. These natural qualities make it a material that can adapt to a wide variety of uses, from structural elements to decorative finishes.

Characteristics and Properties

Wood is valued for being strong yet lightweight, making it ideal for everything from construction to fine furniture. It also provides natural insulation and reduces noise, which adds to its practicality in homes and other spaces. However, because wood can absorb and release moisture, it needs to be properly treated or maintained to stay stable over time.

Manufacture

Turning wood into a finished product starts with harvesting trees, followed by debarking, cutting, and drying the logs. Kiln drying is a common method used to reduce moisture and make the wood more stable. Products like cross-laminated timber (CLT) and laminated veneer lumber (LVL) are made by layering and bonding pieces of wood to create materials that are stronger and more reliable for construction.

Treatments

Treatments are used to improve wood’s natural qualities and make it more durable in challenging conditions. For example, pressure treatments help prevent decay and insect damage, while thermal modification enhances its stability and resistance to moisture. Finishes like stains, varnishes, and oils are applied to protect the surface and enhance its appearance. These processes ensure wood can perform well even in outdoor or high-exposure settings.

Processing

Processing wood involves both traditional methods and modern technology. Basic techniques like sawing and planning are used to shape it into beams, planks, or panels, while CNC machines make it possible to create detailed designs and precise cuts. Materials left over from processing, such as sawdust or wood chips, are often used to make composite products or as fuel, making sure nothing goes to waste.

Innovation

Wood continues to evolve as a material thanks to modern technology. Fiber-reinforced timber and new types of adhesives have made wood stronger and more durable. At the same time, techniques like 3D printing with wood composites are enabling designs that would have been difficult to achieve with traditional methods. Products like cross-laminated timber (CLT) are now being used in ambitious projects, including tall buildings and large-scale construction.