A review on life cycle assessments of thermally modified wood

Holzforschung ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 0 (0) ◽  
Author(s):  
Kévin Candelier ◽  
Janka Dibdiakova
Keyword(s):  
Life Cycle ◽  
Environmental Impacts ◽  
Treated Wood ◽  
Single Step ◽  
Thermal Modification ◽  
Wood Products ◽  
Wood Preservation ◽  
Cumulative Energy ◽  
Thermally Modified Wood ◽  
Cumulative Energy Intake

AbstractThis review compiles various literature studies on the environmental impacts associated with the processes of thermal modification of wood. In wood preservation field, the wood modification by heat is considered as an ecofriendly process due to the absence of any additional chemicals. However, it is challenging to find proper scientific and industrial data that support this aspect. There are still very few complete studies on the life cycle assessment (LCA) and even less studies on the environmental impacts related to wood heat treatment processes whether on a laboratory or on an industrial scales. This comprehensive review on environmental impact assessment emphasizes environmental categories such as dwindling of natural resources, cumulative energy intake, gaseous, solid and liquid emissions occurred by the thermal-treated wood industry. All literature-based data were collected for every single step of the process of wood thermal modification like resources, treatment process, transport and distribution, uses and end of life of treated wood products.

scholarly journals Review on Life Cycle Assessment of Solar Photovoltaic Panels

Energies ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
pp. 252 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vincenzo Muteri ◽  
Maurizio Cellura ◽  
Domenico Curto ◽  
Vincenzo Franzitta ◽  
Sonia Longo ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Life Cycle Assessment ◽  
Life Cycle ◽  
Environmental Impacts ◽  
Energy Demand ◽  
Geographical Location ◽  
Laboratory Research ◽  
Cumulative Energy ◽  
Cumulative Energy Demand ◽  
Environmental Indices ◽  
Silicon Based

The photovoltaic (PV) sector has undergone both major expansion and evolution over the last decades, and currently, the technologies already marketed or still in the laboratory/research phase are numerous and very different. Likewise, in order to assess the energy and environmental impacts of these devices, life cycle assessment (LCA) studies related to these systems are always increasing. The objective of this paper is to summarize and update the current literature of LCA applied to different types of grid-connected PV, as well as to critically analyze the results related to energy and environmental impacts generated during the life cycle of PV technologies, from 1st generation (traditional silicon based) up to the third generation (innovative non-silicon based). Most of the results regarded energy indices like energy payback time, cumulative energy demand, and primary energy demand, while environmental indices were variable based on different scopes and impact assessment methods. Moreover, the review work allowed to highlight and compare key parameters (PV type and system, geographical location, efficiency), methodological insights (functional unit, system boundaries, etc.), and energy/environmental hotspots of 39 LCA studies relating to different PV systems, in order to underline the importance of these aspects, and to provide information and a basis of comparison for future analyses.

scholarly journals Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) Produced in Western Washington: The Role of Logistics and Wood Species Mix

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (5) ◽  
pp. 1278 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cindy Chen ◽  
Francesca Pierobon ◽  
Indroneil Ganguly
Keyword(s):  
Life Cycle Assessment ◽  
Life Cycle ◽  
Environmental Impacts ◽  
Wood Species ◽  
Picea Sitchensis ◽  
Wood Products ◽  
Cross Laminated Timber ◽  
Environmentally Sustainable ◽  
Western Washington ◽  
Manufacturing Facilities

The use of cross-laminated timber (CLT), as an environmentally sustainable building material, has generated significant interest among the wood products industry, architects and policy makers in Washington State. However, the environmental impacts of CLT panels can vary significantly depending on material logistics and wood species mix. This study developed a regionally specific cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment of CLT produced in western Washington. Specifically, this study focused on transportation logistics, mill location, and relevant wood species mixes to provide a comparative analysis for CLT produced in the region. For this study, five sawmills (potential lamstock suppliers) in western Washington were selected along with two hypothetical CLT mills. The results show that the location of lumber suppliers, in reference to the CLT manufacturing facilities, and the wood species mix are important factors in determining the total environmental impacts of the CLT production. Additionally, changing wood species used for lumber from a heavier species such as Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) to a lighter species such as Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) could generate significant reduction in the global warming potential (GWP) of CLT. Given the size and location of the CLT manufacturing facilities, the mills can achieve up to 14% reduction in the overall GWP of the CLT panels by sourcing the lumber locally and using lighter wood species.

scholarly journals Environmental and cost benefits of co-digesting food waste at wastewater treatment facilities

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ben Morelli ◽  
Sarah Cashman ◽  
Xin (Cissy) Ma ◽  
Jason Turgeon ◽  
Sam Arden ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Wastewater Treatment ◽  
Life Cycle ◽  
Environmental Impacts ◽  
Life Cycle Cost ◽  
Water Reuse ◽  
Energy Demand ◽  
Energy Requirement ◽  
Baseline Scenario ◽  
Cumulative Energy ◽  
Cumulative Energy Demand

Abstract The wastewater industry is undergoing a paradigm shift from focusing solely on treatment to incorporating concepts aimed at mitigating environmental impacts such as energy and nutrient recovery and water reuse. This study uses life cycle assessment and life cycle cost analysis to investigate the effect of expanding anaerobic digestion (AD) capacity and adding combined heat and power on environmental and cost indicators at a mid-sized wastewater treatment facility (WWTF) in Massachusetts, USA. Since 2014, Massachusetts has banned the disposal of organic waste from commercial organizations producing more than one ton of material per week. The WWTF's additional digester capacity allows the co-digestion of municipal solids with a food-based engineered bioslurry due to this ban. Study data were compiled for several AD feedstock quantity and performance scenarios, and compared to a baseline scenario representative of historic plant operations prior to co-digestion. Reductions in environmental impact are demonstrated for six of eight environmental impacts, including global climate change potential and cumulative energy demand. Eutrophication potential increases by 10 percent and 24 percent across assessed scenarios. Water use remains relatively constant across scenarios. Facility energy production increases dramatically with co-digestion, satisfying 100 percent of the WWTF's thermal energy requirement and producing surplus electricity assuming full AD capacity utilization.

scholarly journals Use of Thermo-Modified Wood Massif in Making Parametric Exterior Furniture

2018 ◽  
Vol 7 (4.36) ◽  
pp. 1112 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. R. Shaikhutdinova ◽  
R. R. Safin ◽  
F. V. Nazipova ◽  
S. R. Mukhametzyanov
Keyword(s):  
Treated Wood ◽  
Thermal Modification ◽  
Saturated Steam ◽  
Polished Surface ◽  
Duration Of Treatment ◽  
Heat Treated ◽  
Different Temperatures ◽  
Convective Thermal ◽  
Thermally Modified Wood ◽  
Modified Wood

This paper proposes the use of an array of heat-treated wood of various species to make parametric furniture for the purpose of operation in the exterior, and on objects in conditions of high humidity. The dependence of change in the color range of thermowoods depending on the temperature and duration of treatment is presented. Experiments were carried out to study the biological stability of thermally modified wood treated by various technologies including: vacuum-convective thermal modification in superheated steam, convective thermal modification in high-pressure saturated steam, as well as in hydrophobic liquids, in flue gas and vacuum-conductive thermal-modifying. The degree of resistance of wood was determined, which allows to conclude that the mass losses of heat-treated specimens caused by the destructive action of fungi are significantly lower compared to untreated ones. The researchwas conducted to determine the numerical characteristics of microroughness of the polished surface of wood, thermally modified at different temperatures.   

scholarly journals Establishment of moisture diffusion regularities through the polymer shell of thermally modified wood

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 41-47
Author(s):  
Yu. V. Tsapko ◽  
O. Yu. Horbachova
Keyword(s):  
Dimensional Stability ◽  
Experimental Studies ◽  
Treated Wood ◽  
Moisture Diffusion ◽  
Wood Products ◽  
Heating Process ◽  
Polymer Shell ◽  
Coating Application ◽  
Thermally Modified Wood ◽  
Modified Wood

An analysis of the process of thermal modification of wood, which was obtained by a controlled heating process, was done. The unique technological properties (durability, low hygroscopicity and dimensional stability) of thermomodified wood make it possible to use it in various scope. Due to the influence of temperature there are some chemical changes in the structures of the wood cell wall components (lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose). This leads to an increase in density, hardness, improved hydrophobicity (water repellency), thereby reducing their ability to absorb moisture and swell. The products absorb moisture gradually, are less prone to swelling and shrinkage, but still need the elastic coatings application. It is proved that heat-treated wood turns gray over time under the influence of sunlight, and therefore requires additional surface treatment with a coating. Additional protective substances application on the thermo-modified wood products surface promotes dimensional stability and protects against rapid weathering of the surface in open air conditions. The use of transparent coatings and oils does not protect the surface from discoloration during weathering. They are recommended for products are manufactured from thermomodified wood, which are operated away from direct sunlight and rain. The parameters of moisture penetration into wood are mathematically modeled on the basis of the moisture diffusion quasi-stationary equation through the polymer coating on the flat sample surface. The dynamics of moisture content changes in thermally modified wood by different schedules parameters has been experimentally studied. The obtained mathematical relations based on the experimental studies results make it possible to calculate the moisture diffusion coefficient in thermally modified wood in the presence of a polymer shell. It is established that the wax coating application on the surface of the product reduces the moisture diffusion process more than 10 times for surfaces treated at a temperature of 160 °C for 1 hour. That is, such products can be used on objects with high humidity.

Influence of Different Modifications on Bending Strength of Wood

2019 ◽  
Vol 800 ◽  
pp. 240-245
Author(s):  
Andis Antons ◽  
Dace Cīrule ◽  
Ingeborga Andersone ◽  
Anrijs Verovkins ◽  
Edgars Kuka
Keyword(s):  
Thermal Treatment ◽  
Bending Strength ◽  
Treatment Method ◽  
Thermal Modification ◽  
Wood Products ◽  
Bending Properties ◽  
Wood Protection ◽  
Thermally Modified Wood ◽  
Mild Temperature ◽  
Modified Wood

Despite intensive research in wood protection, no simple wood treatment method is available for satisfactory wood protection that could ensure appropriate strength and bio-resistance of wood products during their service life. The present study is a part of a project that is aimed to improve wood service properties by combining wood thermal treatment and impregnation with copper containing preservatives. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of conventional modifications (thermal modification at relatively mild temperature range (150 - 180°C) and impregnation) and double-treatments (impregnation after thermal treatment and vice versa) on the bending properties of birch (Betula spp.) and pine (Pinussylvestris L.) wood. Bending strength considerably decreased after thermal modification of wood, however MOE values generally did not significantly change. Moreover, impregnation had no effect on the bending properties for both unmodified and thermally modified wood specimens. For double-treatment in which impregnation was carried out before thermal modification no changes in bending strength were observed comparing to thermally modified wood. However, MOE values of these specimens were 10 % for birch and 19 % for pine smaller comparing to just thermally modified wood. The results of double-treatment tests imply that, regarding wood bending properties, wood impregnation after thermal modification is more appropriate.

scholarly journals Holzprodukte in vergleichenden Ökobilanzen | Wood Products in Comparative Life Cycle Assessment Studies

1999 ◽  
Vol 150 (3) ◽  
pp. 96-104 ◽  
Author(s):  
Frank Werner ◽  
Tina Künniger ◽  
Klaus Richter
Keyword(s):  
Life Cycle Assessment ◽  
Life Cycle ◽  
Environmental Impacts ◽  
Wood Products ◽  
Product System ◽  
Comparative Life Cycle Assessment

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) quantifies the potential environmental impacts of a product system throughout its life cycle. LCA methods are discussed taking into account the exceptional position of forestry and wood products. The results of three studies are presented where wood products are being compared to alternative products.

scholarly journals Life Cycle Assessment of North American Laminated Strand Lumber (LSL) Production

2021 ◽  
Vol 3 (4) ◽  
pp. 1-1
Author(s):  
Poonam Khatri ◽  
◽  
Kamalakanta Sahoo ◽  
Richard Bergman ◽  
Maureen Puettmann ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Life Cycle Assessment ◽  
Life Cycle ◽  
Environmental Impacts ◽  
North American ◽  
Wood Products ◽  
Resource Extraction ◽  
Study Results ◽  
Cradle To Gate ◽  
Whole Life Cycle ◽  
Lca Results

Raw materials for buildings and construction account for more than 35% of global primary energy use and nearly 40% of energy-related CO2 emissions. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) emphasized the drastic reduction in GHG emissions and thus, wood products with very low or negative carbon footprint materials can play an important role. In this study, a cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment (LCA) approach was followed to quantify the environmental impacts of laminated strand lumber (LSL). The inventory data represented North American LSL production in terms of input materials, including wood and resin, electricity and fuel use, and production facility emissions for the 2019 production year. The contribution of cradle-to-gate life cycle stages was substantial (>70%) towards the total (cradle-to-grave) environmental impacts of LSL. The cradle-to-gate LCA results per m³ LSL were estimated to be 275 kg CO2 eq global warming, 39.5 kg O3eq smog formation, 1.7 kg SO2 eq acidification, 0.2 kg N eq eutrophication, and 598 MJ fossil fuel depletion. Resin production as a part of resource extraction contributed 124 kg CO2 eq (45%). The most relevant unit processes in their decreasing contribution to their cradle-to-grave GW impacts were resource extraction, end-of-life (EoL), transportation (resources and product), and LSL manufacturing. Results of sensitivity analysis showed that the use of adhesive, consumption of electricity, and transport distance had the greatest influences on the LCA results. Considering the whole life cycle of the LSL, the final product stored 1,010 kg CO2 eq/m³ of LSL, roughly two times more greenhouse gas emissions over than what was released (493 kg CO2 eq/m³ of LSL) from cradle-to-grave. Overall, LSL has a negative GW impact and acts as a carbon sink if used in the construction sector. The study results are intended to be important for future studies, including waste disposal and recycling strategies to optimize environmental trade-offs.

scholarly journals Interaction between Thermal Modification Temperature of Spruce Wood and the Cutting and Fracture Parameters

Materials ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 14 (20) ◽  
pp. 6218
Author(s):  
Luďka Hlásková ◽  
Jiří Procházka ◽  
Vít Novák ◽  
Petr Čermák ◽  
Zdeněk Kopecký
Keyword(s):  
Bending Strength ◽  
Reference Sample ◽  
Treated Wood ◽  
Thermal Modification ◽  
Spruce Wood ◽  
Fracture Parameters ◽  
Feed Force ◽  
Heat Treated ◽  
Influence Of Temperature On ◽  
Thermally Modified Wood

This work examines the effect of thermal modification temperatures in the production of thermally modified wood on the cutting and fracture parameters when cutting heat-treated spruce wood by a circular sawblade machine. The samples were thermally modified at 160, 180, 200, and 220 °C. One sample was unmodified and was used as a reference sample. On the basis of the performed experiments, the fracture parameters (fracture toughness and shear yield strength) were calculated for the axial–perpendicular direction of cutting. In comparison with the theoretical assumptions, the influence of temperature on the cutting and fracture parameters was confirmed. Thermally treated wood is characterized by increased fragility and susceptibility to crack formation, as well as reduced density, bending strength, and shear strength. These properties significantly affect the size of the cutting force and feed force, as well as the fracture parameters. As the temperature increases, the values of these parameters decrease. The mentioned material characteristics could be useful for the optimization of the cutting process, as well as for the issue of energy consumption during the machining of heat-treated wood.

scholarly journals Corrosiveness of Thermally Modified Wood

Forests ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
pp. 50 ◽  
Author(s):  
Samuel Zelinka ◽  
Leandro Passarini ◽  
Frederick Matt ◽  
Grant Kirker
Keyword(s):  
Stainless Steel ◽  
Carbon Steel ◽  
Water Vapor Sorption ◽  
Thermal Modification ◽  
Wood Products ◽  
Galvanized Steel ◽  
Exposure Test ◽  
Corrosion Rates ◽  
Thermally Modified Wood ◽  
Modified Wood

Thermally modified wood is becoming commercially available in North America for use in outdoor applications. While there have been many studies on how thermal modification affects the dimensional stability, water vapor sorption, and biodeterioration of wood, little is known about whether thermally modified wood is corrosive to metal fasteners and hangers used to hold these members in place. As thermally modified wood is used in outdoor applications, it has the potential to become wet which may lead to corrosion of embedded fasteners. Here, we examine the corrosiveness of thermally modified ash and oak in an exposure test where stainless steel, hot-dip galvanized steel, and carbon steel nails are driven into wood and exposed to a nearly 100% relative humidity environment at 27 °C for one year. The corrosion rates were compared against control specimens of untreated and preservative-treated southern pine. Stainless steel fasteners did not corrode in any specimens regardless of the treatment. The thermal modification increased the corrosiveness of the ash and oak, however, an oil treatment that is commonly applied by the manufacturer to the wood after the heat treatment reduced the corrosiveness. The carbon steel fasteners exhibited higher corrosion rates in the thermally modified hardwoods than in the preservative-treated pine control. Corrosion rates of galvanized fasteners in the hardwoods were much lower than carbon steel fasteners. These data can be used to design for corrosion when building with thermally modified wood, and highlight differences between corrosion of metals embedded in wood products.

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