Potentials of thermo-oil treatment process for improved properties of lesser utilized wood species in Nigeria

Abstract

The growing demand for timber has resulted in increased exploitation of forest plantations and the use of fast-growing species. In  response, technology has been developed to improve the mechanical qualities and durability of wood. This technology has reduced the  need for toxic chemicals, instead promoting non-toxic modifications to prevent the decay and increase the mechanical properties of  timber. Thermal modification is one such alternative method, which improves wood's dimensional stability and decay resistance while  only slightly decreasing its strength qualities. As an eco-friendly approach, thermo-oil modification of wood shows promise as an  alternative to traditional chemical treatments. Numerous scientific articles have explored the thermo-oil modification of wood,  summarizing its properties and potential applications. This reviewed article also examines the effects of thermo-oil modification on  various wood properties, including dimensional stability, chemical properties, and resistance to termites and fungi.