Changes in the dynamic and Static MOE of furfuryi alcohol-treated wood

To assess changes in the mechanical properties of wood treated with furfuryl alcohol, the static modulus of elasticity, the dynamic modulus of elasticity and some physical properties of pine and larch wood were estimated before and after furfuryl alcohol treatment. The possibility of reducing floor noise by using furfuryl alcohol-treated wood was also evaluated. In comparison to untreated specimens, furfuryl alcohol-treated wood exhibited a color change from yellow to slightly brown, and swelling and water absorption ratios were significantly reduced. Furthermore, the specific gravity, static MOE and dynamic MOE were enhanced while the natural frequency was reduced. The correlation coefficient between the dynamic modulus of elasticity and the static modulus of elasticity for furfuryl alcohol-treated specimens and for control specimens were 0.90 and 0.92, respectively. The dynamic MOE to specific gravity ratio (dMOE/r) and the static MOE to density ratio (sMOE/r) both decreased as a result of furfuryl alcohol treatment. The furfuryl alcohol-treated wood could contribute to a decrease in noise if used as flooring material.