Sägespänen

Sägespäne, commonly translated as sawdust, are the fine particles produced when wood is cut, sawn, planed, milled, or sanded. They are a by-product of timber processing and are generated in large quantities in sawmills, carpentry shops, and furniture manufacturing. The term covers a spectrum from very fine dust to small wood shavings, with particle size influenced by the cutting method, equipment, and wood species.

Sägespäne consist mainly of cellulose, lignin, and extractives, with the exact composition varying by wood type and moisture content. Dry sawdust is highly dusty and can be flammable; humidity and temperature influence its tendency to clump or ignite. Hardwood and softwood sawdust differ in particle shape and allergenic potential, and some species produce enzymes or compounds that affect handling.

Uses for Sägespäne are diverse. They serve as a biofuel source in pellets or briquettes and as a raw material for fiberboard or particleboard when combined with binders. They are also used as mulch, soil conditioner, or animal bedding, and as absorbents for spills or litter in horticulture. In crafts and industrial processes, sawdust may be mixed with resins or used as a filler.

Health, safety, and environmental considerations are important. Inhalation of wood dust can irritate the airways, and prolonged exposure—particularly to hardwood dust—has been linked to respiratory issues and certain cancers in some regulations. Proper ventilation, dust extraction, and personal protective equipment are recommended. Environmentally, sawdust is renewable, but high moisture or contamination can affect composting and soil balance; burning or disposal should be conducted in accordance with local regulations.

See also: wood dust regulations, occupational safety, wood-based materials.