Sawdust

Sawdust is a byproduct of cutting, grinding, sanding wood, produced in sawmills, carpentry shops, furniture manufacturers, and from milling. It consists of fine wood particles and varies in size and moisture.

Composition depends on wood species, moisture content, and processing method; can include small amounts of resins, tannins, and occasionally contaminants from the tools (nails, coatings) if present in the raw stock; generally light, fibrous, dry or moist.

Particle size ranges from fine powder to small chips; common standardized forms used include dust that passes through a 1 to 4 mm screen; moisture content affects weight and tendency to clump. It can be abrasive and dusty.

Uses: fuel (pellets, briquettes, boiler fuel), soil amendment and mulch, animal bedding, composting and mushroom cultivation, filler in particleboard and composite materials, absorbent material for oils, cleaning; also used in crafts and horticulture.

Hazards: wood dust inhalation can irritate respiratory tract, wood dust from hardwoods linked to nasal cancers; proper ventilation, masks; dust accumulation can create fire/explosion hazards; keep away from open flames; clean using damp methods or explosion-proof vacuums.

Environmental and disposal: can be composted or used as mulch; if treated wood or with finishes, may require special disposal due to chemicals; stored dry to prevent mold.