Scanning Electron Microscopy Study of the Effectiveness Oil Heat Treatment on 10-years-old teakwood in ground contact

Abstract

The microphotograph structure properties were studied on the performance of the 10 years old Tectona grandis wood that has undergone 3 months in a ground contact test. The heat treatment process at selected temperatures of 160°C, 200°C, and 240°C was applied for 2 hours in a specially designed oil heat-treatment machine powered by electricity. The oil heat-treated wood, including the control samples, were buried 80% into the ground at a randomly selected site exposed to rain and sun conditions. The wood was cut into sizes of 0.5 cm x 1 cm x 10 cm, being buried in the ground. The distances between the samples are planted at 5 cm apart. At the end of the testing period, all wood samples were taken, clean and dried desiccators. Once ready, the samples were studied for changes in the anatomy and microstructures using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). In addition, changes were examined between the treated and untreated teak samples. The oil heat-treatment process alters teak wood's cell structure, especially those treated at extreme temperatures. Observations focused on the cell structure, particularly at the fibre and parenchyma.

<i>Tectona grandis</i>: Examine an Ultrastructure on Cultivated Teakwood due to the Scanning Electron Microscopy Enhanced by Heat Treatment

“…Glassy transitions of the lignin were reported occurring at temperatures ranging from 130°C to 190°C, again depending upon the moisture available [29]. Thermal decomposition started on lignin at 200˚C [4]. Thus, active pyrolysis of lignin occurred at the temperature range of about 220ºC.…”

“…This deciduous tree is highly sought after and regarded as highly valuable in the wood industry. It is one of the most popular and durable woods used for furniture, particularly for outdoor uses, due to its ability to withstand rain, sun, frost, and snow [4]. After years of exposure to these harsh elements, teak furniture can retain its form, albeit with slight colour changes.…”

“…Though the Teak wood has high natural durability and high resistance towards decay and insect attacks, the sapwood portion of the wood is comparatively weak towards insect attacks and rotting due to less extractives or deciduous oil in this wood portion [4]. Early formed heartwood is also less durable than the heartwood from mature trees.…”