Flooring characteristics of thermo-mechanical densified wood from three hardwood tropical species in Costa Rica

Densification is one method used to modify low-density woods make them achieve the hardness required for flooring application. The purpose of this study was investigate effect thermo-mechanical densification with pre-heating in wood Alnus acuminata, Vochysia ferruginea and guatemalensis from, seeking stabilize reduce spring-back densified evaluate its performance applications. results showed that three species turned dark. This because brightness diminished yellowness redness increased. Weight loss due statistically higher V. guatemalensis. final density were similar species. percentage A. acuminata than degree compression As evaluation, densification, temperature time affected behavior flooring. low high weight stage caused greater values wear, wear index, residual deformation, indentation falling ball test, more damages surface test ferruginea.