Penetrability of nano-wollastonite into the poplar wood and its effect on wood durability and dimensional stability

In recent years, much attention has been paid to nano technology for improving wood defects. Wollastonite as a mineral is commonly used in the production of plastic, ceramic and concrete. Wollastonite production in nano scale has increased interest in using it. Recently, a large number of studies have been carried out in Iran aiming to improve durability, dimensional stability, and flammability of wood and wood products using nano wollastonite. Based on the promising results obtained in these researchs, this study was conducted as a complementary investigation to verify nano-wollastonite penetrability into the wood as well as its effects on biological durability and dimensional stability. The results showed that nano-wollastonite could not penetrate into the xylem since wood texture serves as a filter against it. The treated samples with nano-wollastonite showed partly resistance against white rotting fungus, but this was lost after a short-time leaching. Nano-wollastonite had no effect on the water absorption and volumetric shrinkage of treated samples. Base on the results of this study, nano-wollastonite is not recommended for wood impregnation industry, at least when raw wood is concerned.