Performance of Finishes on Wood that is Chemically Modified by Acetylation

By E.P.J. Beckers, M. de Meijer, H. Militz, M. Stevens

Swelling and shrinkage of wood has a major effect on the performance of coatings applied to its surface. Altering the molecular structure of wood by a reaction with acetic anhydride is known to improve the dimensional stability of wood considerably.

Such acetylation of wood was shown to have no effect on the drying characteristics and adhesion of applied coatings. Weathering performance of coatings was improved considerably. A color stabilizing effect was achieved with acetylated Scots pine with and without a clearcoating.