Purpose
The project aimed to develop faster and more reliable methodologies for the durability analysis of Australian hardwoods. It set out to address the challenge of long testing times that delayed the use of new timber treatments.
Summary
The project aimed to find faster and more reliable ways to test the durability of Australian hardwoods when used in construction. Researchers set up field trials and laboratory experiments to compare traditional and new testing methods. They treated Tasmanian hardwoods with different preservatives and tested how well these treatments protected the wood from decay and insects. The team also explored advanced techniques, like supercritical carbon dioxide treatment, to improve preservative penetration. Their work helped the industry by providing better testing methods, supporting the use of local hardwoods, and building research capacity for future timber durability studies.
Benefits to the Forest and Wood Products Industry
The project enabled timber companies to test wood durability much faster, saving time and resources. The high-pressure method using carbon dioxide allowed preservatives to penetrate deeply into the wood without causing damage. Boron dip treatment improved absorption, making regular preservative treatments more effective for industry use
Acknowledgement
This work was supported by funding provided to Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) to administer the National Institute for Forest Products Innovation program (NIFPI).
Funding for the program was provided by the Australian Government, the Tasmanian Government and Australian forest and wood products industry.
