Degradative Effects of Ultraviolet Light and Acid Rain on Wood Surface Quality

Authors

  • David N.-S. Hon

Keywords:

Acid precipitation, cellulose, lignin, carbonyl group, infrared spectrophotometer, degradation, tensile strength

Abstract

Wood surface quality deteriorated when wood was exposed to ultraviolet light, acid rain, and the combination of these two elements. When wood surfaces were exposed to ultraviolet light, carbonyl group content increased and lignin content decreased simultaneously. These changes were accelerated when they were also exposed to a dilute sulfuric acid solution—a laboratory simulation of acid rain — especially at 65 C and 65% relative humidity. Experimental results showed that ultra violet light changed the surface quality by generating oxidized products, and the sulfuric acid contributed to the deterioration of tensile strength.

References

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Published

2007-06-22

Issue

Number 2 / April 1994

Section

Research Contributions

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