Kuumtöödeldud

Kuumtöödeldud is an Estonian term that translates to "heat-treated" in English. It refers to a process where a material, most commonly wood, is subjected to elevated temperatures in a controlled environment. This heat treatment is typically carried out in a special oven or kiln without the addition of chemicals. The primary goals of heat treatment for wood are to enhance its dimensional stability, improve its resistance to decay and insect attack, and alter its color.

The process involves carefully raising the temperature of the wood and maintaining it for a specific duration, followed by a cooling phase. During heating, chemical and physical changes occur within the wood structure. These changes can lead to a reduction in moisture content and a decrease in the wood's hygroscopicity, meaning it absorbs less moisture from the surrounding atmosphere. This makes the wood less prone to swelling and shrinking with changes in humidity, thus improving its stability.

Furthermore, the heat treatment can denature proteins and sugars within the wood, making it less appealing and digestible for fungi and insects. This contributes to increased durability and a longer lifespan for the treated wood, especially in outdoor applications. The heating process also causes a color change, often resulting in a richer, darker hue, which can be aesthetically pleasing. Kuumtöödeldud wood is widely used in construction, cladding, decking, and furniture manufacturing where enhanced durability and stability are desired.