Nano+


Combined treatment of wood with nanoparticles



This project examines a two step treatment process of solid wood. In the first step, wood properties are improved by impregnation with nanosols (silica and alumosols) and organo-functional silanes. The dimensional stability increases, swelling and shrinkage movements are reduced and the resistance to microbial infestation is increased without the use of toxic, ecologically questionable biocides. In the second step, a functional nanoparticle composite coating is applied to this modified wood. Good adhesion of the coating to the previously soaked/primed wood is expected and the coating shows an extremely hydrophobic character and permanently reduces the moisture load of the wood. With an additional UV protection, a graying of the wood substance is prevented. Advantages of the nanoparticulate composite coatings include water vapor permeability, which ensures further drying of the wood even in woods with high residual moisture, the ability to function in layer thicknesses of less than 10 microns, and the repairability of the coating.
With the proposed approach, a refinement of native woods can be achieved, so that dimensionally stable, bioresistant components made of local woods are made more sustainable and long-lasting. The maintenance and service intervals are also considerably lengthened.