Oxidative activation of wood surfaces by flame treatment

Summary The effects of an oxidative activation of some different wood surfaces by flame treatment has been studied. Flame treatment markedly increased the wettability and decreased the microbiological activity. No improvement in glue adhesion was discerned for a water-borne PVAc-glue. ESCA measurements showed a considerable increase in oxidation level as a result of the flame treatment. The duration of the activation varied between different wood species.Appreciation is expressed to Prof. E. Back for valuable discussions and to Mr. G. Carlsson, Institute for Surface Chemistry, Stockholm, for ESCA measurements. Financial support from the Swedish Council for Building Research is kindly acknowledged