Water repelling Populus Alba by emulsion of paraffin, Quaternary ammonium and hydrated starch

Abstract

The water repellency and dimensional stabilization of wood species are important for outdoor uses. In this study, the water absorption and water repelling of poplar wood (Populus Alba) by emulsion of paraffin, Quaternary ammonium and starch, were investigated. Paraffin in three levels of 0%, 3%, 5%, Quaternary ammonium in three levels of 0%, 1.5%, 2.5% and also starch in three levels of 0%, 1% and 2%(by weight) were selected as variables. A set of matched specimens were set aside as control, for making comparison. Results showed that the amount of paraffin had a positive significant effect on water absorption and water repellency that is increasing paraffin would improve these properties. Furthermore, specimens treated with paraffin had better water repellency than control samples. Based on the results, it is claimed that the treatment of 5% paraffin, 0-1.5% Quaternary ammonium and 0-1% starch will bring about water absorption and water repellency in treated specimens to a desired level, without causing any damage to other physical properties of them.

Keywords

• Paraffin
• Quaternary ammonium
• starch
• water repelling
• poplar wood