Intensive microwave radiation of large cross section sawn timber to modify wood structure

Abstract

The practical application of microwaves (MW) for wood modification with the aim to increase wood permeability for liquids and gases requires high intensity power, applied in short bursts to provide the required degree of the modification for preservative treatment. Industrial facilities require high microwave power levels in order to deal with large cross section timber. These requirements demand the development of special MW applicators. New four port MW applicator operating at 0.922 GHz has been built for sawn timber modification and tested in 300 kW MW experimental plant. The study of all sides of the MW railway sleeper modification allowed to demonstrate applicability of the applicator f..