Chemical modification of pine wood with propionic anhydride: Effect on decay resistance and sorption of water vapour

The purpose of this paper is to show the effects of level of substitution with a linear chain anhydride (propionic anhydride) on decay resistance and on water vapour sorption of modified Scots pine sapwood. The work described herein has demonstrated that chemically modified Scots pine sapwood with propionic anhydride afforded substantial bioprotection against Coniophora puteana . It required a weight gain of approximately 17% following reaction to ensure complete protection. The sorption of water vapour of propionic anhydride modified wood was greatly reduced.