Effect of thermal modification of slash pine with linseed oil on water repellency and performance of mechanical connections

Slash pine specimens were thermally modified at 120 and 160 degrees C in linseed oil for 2 and 6 h to determine the effects on water repellency and the impact on mechanical properties of nailed connections. Thermal modification improved water repellency. Results suggested the improvements were due to increased proportions of crystalline cellulose and lignin condensation. Mechanical tests of nailed connections showed a significant loss of performance only in samples treated at 120 degrees C for 2 h. The results indicate that thermal modification generally had no negative effects on connector behaviour.

Automated summary

The research showed that thermal modification of slash pine in linseed oil at different temperatures and durations improved water repellency by increasing proportions of crystalline cellulose and lignin condensation. However, a significant loss of mechanical performance in nailed connections was only observed in specimens treated at 120 degrees C for 2 hours, indicating that thermal modification generally had no negative effects on connector behavior.