What is Moisture Content in Wood?

Moisture content (MC) refers to the amount of water present in wood. It is expressed as a percentage of the dry weight of the wood and is a crucial factor in determining its properties and performance.

Importance of Moisture Content in Wood

• Dimensional stability: High MC can cause wood to swell, warp, or crack.
• Strength: Dry wood is stronger than wet wood, as water weakens the bonds between wood fibers.
• Durability: Wet wood is more susceptible to decay, fungi, and insect damage.
• Thermal conductivity: Dry wood is a better insulator than wet wood.
• Workability: Wet wood is more difficult to cut and shape than dry wood.

Measuring Moisture Content

Moisture content can be measured using various methods, including:

• Electrical resistance: Measures the resistance to electrical current flow through wood.
• Weight loss: Determines the weight difference between wet and dry wood.
• Infrared: Uses infrared radiation to measure the amount of water in wood.

Optimal Moisture Content for Wood

The optimal MC for wood depends on its intended use, but generally falls between 6% and 12%. Maintaining optimal MC is crucial for ensuring the structural integrity, durability, and performance of wood products.