Apr 01, 2023
Research internship Lea Semmler
Color development of the artificially aged maple samples
Investigation of artificial wood ageing through thermal treatment in a closed system
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Duration |
04/2023 - 10/2023 |
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Researcher |
Lea Semmler |
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Supervisor |
Dr.-Ing. Mario Zauer Dipl.-Ing. Tobias Dietrich |
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Research group |
Solid wood and veneer |
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Keywords |
Artificial wood ageing, thermal treatment, maple, spruce, property determination |
This practical research course is dedicated to the investigation of a method for the artificial ageing of wood with the aim of simulating the effects of natural ageing and thus enabling an application in the construction of musical instruments. Spruce and maple wood are subjected to a mild thermal treatment in a controlled, closed system in a humid environment.
To evaluate the changes in the wood properties, various parameters are recorded, including general physical parameters, color and vibration characteristics as well as mechanical and hygric properties. The results of the investigation show that the wood loses mass and undergoes a clear color change to a darker, browner shade. The analysis of the vibration parameters shows marginal changes in the properties. The mechanical tests show that both the strength and the impact strength of the wood decrease, which indicates that the material is becoming brittle. On a positive note, however, the hygric properties of the wood improved.