Quebracho-Based Wood Preservatives: Effect of Concentration and Hardener on Timber Properties

Tannin polyphenols are produced by plants to protect themselves against natural decay. It is expected that impregnating low-durable timber with tannin extracts of more durable species such as quebracho (Schinopsis balansae) will enhance the durability specimens. This biomimetic approach combined in situ polymerization quebracho–hexamine formulations can be a valid alternative synthetic wood preservatives. In this work, we aim evaluate impregnation mechanism well impact and hardener concentration on mechanical leaching resistance properties treated wood. Compression resistance, surface hardness four different common non-durable species: spruce (Picea abies), pine (Pinus spp.), poplar (Populus alba) beech (Fagus sylvatica) impregnated concentrations extract hexamine presented. The results show tannin-impregnated enhanced, especially for lower densities. tendentially do not contribute significantly further increase MOE (modulus elasticity), MOR rupture) Brinell hardness. Similar also obtained when specimens tested leaching: water-resistant cured hexamine, but higher amounts improve its water resistance. These findings suggest tannin–hexamine already effective at low (5 10% 2.5 5% hexamine).