Microwave Treatments and Their Effects on Selected Properties of Portuguese Pinus pinaster Aiton. and Eucalyptus globulus Labill. Wood

The most widespread wood species in the Portuguese forest and widely utilized are maritime pine (Pinus pinaster) eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus Labill). In case of eucalyptus, except for pulping sector, it might have limited usage due to drying issues low permeability. Microwave (MW) treatment is a technology that has been used improve species’ Therefore, present paper aimed evaluate MW both investigate effects different treatments on wood’s density, water uptake capability, modulus rupture (MOR), elasticity (MOE). Using small clear specimens, two powers were used, 700 1200 W, samples submitted successive cycles 2 min till they reached required dryness. results showed each had behavior during terms rate, supply, consumption energy. general, with increase power, densities decreased increased, as possible indicator certain level microstructural damage occurred. Regarding mechanical properties MW-treated under harshest conditions (MW power W), MOR MOE reduced compared sample without treatment.