High-Frequency Energy–Assisted Vacuum Drying of Fresh Eucalyptus globulus

Abstract

Worldwide, eucalyptus tree plantations have been established in appropriate climates because of fast growth and wood qualities suitable mainly for pulp. A potential exists of converting eucalyptus trees into lumber that may be of higher value than pulp. Conventional drying of lumber of Eucalyptus globulus is often difficult because of the occurrence of drying stresses, leading to collapse and checking. The special method of vacuum drying while heating the wood with high-frequency energy (75–77 mbar, 46–51°C) was used to obtain short drying times (5–13 days from green state to 10% final moisture content) and low crack amount.

Keywords:

• Cell collapse
• Cracking
• Drying quality
• Drying rate
• Moisture content
• Rapid drying
• Wood