Healthy product
The thermal modification process requires no chemical additives or other additional constituents. The improved performance is achieved simply by the controlled application of heat and steam.
Replacement
In some end uses, ThermoWood can be used instead of non-sustainable wood species as the thermal modification causes the wood to inherit qualities normally found in hardwoods, such as good overall durability, stability and a distinct appearance closer to hardwood. Compensatory use reduces transportation and saves endangered forests.
Extended maintenance cycle
Tangential and radial shrinkage is reduced by up to 50% compared with untreated pine. A significant reduction in movement means that ThermoWood is less likely to warp or twist.
The heat treatment removes resin from redwood timber. This, together with improved stability, creates a good base for surface treatment and prolongs the product’s service life.
Extended service life
The Building Research Establishment Ltd, England (BRE) has reviewed evidence supplied by VTT and concluded that Finnforest ThermoWood® (Pine, Thermo-D) is equivalent in durability required to provide a thirty-year service life.
Emissions in the surrounding air are very low
Although ThermoWood has a characteristic odour caused by changes occurring during the heat treatment, no harmful compounds are released into the air. The Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC) values are significantly lower than those for untreated softwoods due to the evaporation of most of the terpenes during the heat treatment process.
Low energy consumption
The energy needed for the ThermoWood process is produced by burning bark and wood waste. Energy consumption is slightly increased when compared to normal kiln drying of sawn timber.
Waste handling
When not glued or painted, ThermoWood can be handled as any other untreated wood waste. The material is bio-degradable and can be disposed at the end of its service life by, for example, burning or through the normal waste system. Follow the local norms and regulations for waste handling.