Neutron and X-ray imaging for determining moisture transport in wood

X-ray computed tomography (CT) is a powerful tool for non-destructive characterisation of wood.

The moisture content (MC) of wood is, however, a challenge to study because X-rays cannot distinguish water from wood with precision.

Neutrons, on the other hand, can distinguish water and wood thanks to the neutrons´ interaction with the hydrogen in the water.

Neutron imaging provides a good opportunity to study the interaction between wood and water in detail, which will be be combined with X-ray´s good spatial resolution with respect to density.

This can be used to study and improve industrial wood drying in terms of product quality and energy efficiency, two factors that determine the environmental impact of the drying process.

The purpose of this project is to build knowledge that can lead to the development of new moisture-flow models, which replace the existing outdated models that are currently used at sawmills.

By taking advantage of the latest advances in CT, the drying process could be optimised to become more energy efficient, while improving product quality.

The project is a collaboration between Luleå University of Technology and the Paul Scherrer Institute in Switzerland, to generate knowledge application for advanced research and industrial development towards a more efficient wood industry.