Puitkiud

Puitkiud is the Estonian term for wood fiber, a natural cellulose fiber derived from wood and used as a raw material in a range of products. It is typically produced through mechanical pulping, chemical pulping, or a combination of both, from softwood or hardwood sources. The resulting fibers vary in length and purity, which influences the properties and end-uses of the material.

Wood fibers are renewable and biodegradable when sourced from responsibly managed forests. They are lightweight and can provide good stiffness and strength along the fiber direction, while being prone to moisture absorption. Depending on treatment, they may have enhanced fire resistance, dimensional stability, or moisture resistance.

Common applications include paper and board products, wood fiberboards and insulation, and as reinforcement in cement- or polymer-based composites. In construction and packaging, puitkiud-based materials are valued for their low density and recyclability. Environmental considerations emphasize sustainable forestry, recycling, and potential energy use in processing.