Wood Moisture Content
Wood moisture content refers to the amount of water present within the wood structure. Understanding the moisture content is essential for various reasons, including wood stability, durability, and resistance to decay.
Can Wood Contain Over 100% Moisture Content?
Yes, wood can contain over 100% moisture content. This condition is referred to as “free water” and occurs when the wood is saturated with water beyond its capacity to hold bound water. Free water fills the cell cavities and spaces between the wood fibers, leading to a higher moisture content than the wood’s maximum moisture holding capacity.
- Bound Water: Water molecules chemically bound to the wood cellulose and hemicellulose.
- Free Water: Water that fills the pores and voids in the wood structure.
The excess moisture in free water can be removed through drying processes such as air drying, kiln drying, or vacuum drying. By reducing the moisture content to an acceptable level, wood becomes more stable, less susceptible to decay, and easier to work with.