Utilization of Small Logs or Less Valuable Species for Composite Wood

Abstract

The present shortage in timber and decreasing supplies of preferred woods can be met by (1) improvements and rationalization in technique, (2) development of processes for upgrading the material and (3) development of products from low grade material. Improved techniques in lathe construction and methods of handling, peeling, clipping. splicing, etc., enable smaller sized logs and inferior species or species considered hitherto unsuitable to be used. Such veneer can be used for flush doors, baskets, wood ware, etc. Difficult to peel timbers like Cryptomeria japonica may not offer difficulties in slicing. Overlays upgrade veneer or solid wood by (1) reducing moisture pick up and thus reducing working, (2) providing scuff resistance and by improving the strength and stiffness of wood, reducing checks and grain raising and gives excellent surface for paints and improved wear resistance. They also hide defects. Inferior species which may be nondurable and unsuitable can be used in the form of laminated, impregnated or compressed or other forms of modified wood. Low grade material can also be used for chipboards, fibre and other building boards.