The effect of ageing on bonding performance of plasma treated beech wood with urea-formaldehyde adhesive

Abstract In the process of wood bonding, usage aged and inactivated wooden elements can cause a reduction in mechanical properties products containing wood-adhesive joints. Treating with an atmospheric air plasma represents sophisticated technique for surface activation. With this regard, to enhance bondability normal beech ( Fagus sylvatica L.) urea-formaldehyde (UF) adhesive, dielectric barrier discharge floating electrode configuration was implemented. study, fresh specimen both, untreated treated, were investigated. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed promotion carbon-rich species ageing, but generation new functional oxygen-containing groups after treatment. Microscopic observations scanning electron microscope showed no obvious changes structure Surface oxidation consequently improved wettability water UF adhesive. However, enhanced slightly diminished over time. As shown dynamic analysis, rheological adhesive joints not affected by aging nor The positive influence treatment negative impact substrate ageing shear strengths lap-joints determined using automated bonding evaluation system. Similarly, effect pre-treatment reflected bending produced laminated veneer lumbers. Results that improves performance both wood. Graphic abstract