Microwave Drying of Scots Pine Lumber: Structure Changes, Its Effect on Liquid Permeability

Microwave (MW) drying method was adopted to enhance the liquid permeability of Scots pine lumber. Structure changes were characterized by stereoscope microscope, scanned electron microscope (SEM) and transmission (TEM) examination. Pore parameters before after MW treatment detected mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) method, effect structure on analyzed. As SEM TEM examination results shown, macro micro checks mainly developed at intercellcular tracheids, intercellular ray parenchyma tracheid, while these extend main along radial-longitudinal plane. Pit border destruction, aspirated pits’ orus translocation micro-checks in tracheid cell wall also observed. MIP test shown that pore volume area increased as generated form new cavities. Microstructure would increase quantity pores or enlarge diameter. Liquid flow pathways generated, pits reopened pathways; efficiency improved porosity, diameter which facilitate flow.