Investigating the Viscoelastic Properties and Mechanical Performance of Wood Modifi ed by Biopolyester Treatments.

Oligomer systems based on poly(lactic acid) (PLA), poly(glycolic acid) (PGA), poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) and poly(butylene adipate) (PBA) were impregnated in wood and polymerized in situ to improve the dimensional stability of the treated wood. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) was used to characterize the impact on the treated wood properties. Cell wall bulking treatments (PLA and PGA oligomers: OLA and OGA) induced softening and plasticization of wood components. Lumen filling treatments (PBS and PBA oligomers: OBS and OBA) led to minor decreases in treated wood stiffness with any softening dependent on the polymer melt temperature. Overall, no oligomer treatment induced any significant wood reinforcement, but the Tg of wood components could be reduced significantly.