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Forests
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Wood Testing, Processing and Modification
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Wood Testing, Processing and Modification

A Special Issue of Forests (ISSN 1999-4907) belonging to the section "Wood Science and Forest Products".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 February 2026) | Viewed by 7673

Editors

Dr. Bin Luo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
College of Materials Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, No.35 Tsinghua East Road, Haidian District, Beijing, China
Interests: wood processing; woodcutting theory and tools; woodworking machinery
Dr. Carmen-Mihaela Popescu

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Petru Poni Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the Romanian Academy, 700487 Iasi, Romania
Interests: nanotechnology; synthesis of bio-nanocomposite materials; bio-based (nano)composite formulations
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Wood-processing technology is advancing in terms of intelligence, efficiency, environmental friendliness, and energy conservation. This is a complex engineering problem that requires solving technical issues in cutting, tools, equipment, and processes, among others, with breakthrough theoretical solutions. We hope to engage in in-depth discussions with colleagues on new wood-processing technologies, including experimental and detection methods and new designs, processes, theories, and models, among others, to promote the healthy and sustainable development of this field.

Dr. Bin Luo
Dr. Carmen-Mihaela Popescu
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-anonymized peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Forests is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • wooden products
  • wood process
  • woodcutting theory
  • woodcutting tools
  • woodworking machinery
  • intelligent manufacturing

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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31 pages, 9516 KB  
Article
Optimization of Hydrothermal and Oleothermal Treatments for the Resistance of Dabema (Piptadeniastrum africanum (Hook.f.) Brenan) Wood
by John Nwoanjia, Jean Jalin Eyinga Biwôlé, Joseph Zobo Mfomo, Joel Narcisse Bebga, Desmond Mufor Zy, Junior Maimou Nganko, Yvane S. Nké Ayinda, Pierre-Marie Tefack, Antonio Pizzi, Ioanna A. Papadopoulou, Salomé Ndjakomo Essiane, Antonios N. Papadopoulos and Achille Bernard Biwolé
Forests 2026, 17(1), 138; https://doi.org/10.3390/f17010138 - 21 Jan 2026
Viewed by 915
Abstract
This study evaluates the effects of hydrothermal and oleothermal treatments on the physical, colorimetric, and mechanical properties of Dabema wood. Samples were heated at 100, 160, and 220 °C for 2, 3.5, and 5 h. Equilibrium moisture content decreased from 13.16% in untreated [...] Read more.
This study evaluates the effects of hydrothermal and oleothermal treatments on the physical, colorimetric, and mechanical properties of Dabema wood. Samples were heated at 100, 160, and 220 °C for 2, 3.5, and 5 h. Equilibrium moisture content decreased from 13.16% in untreated wood to approximately 43% lower after hydrothermal treatment at 160 °C for 5 h and to 64% lower after oleothermal treatment at 220 °C for 5 h. Water absorption decreased from 78% in untreated samples to 25%–64% following hydrothermal treatment and to 17%–44% after oleothermal treatment. Hydrothermal treatment caused significant darkening, whereas oleothermal treatment maintained a lighter, more stable color. Mechanical properties improved substantially: in compression, MOE increased by 113% after oleothermal treatment at 220 °C for 5 h. In bending, MOR and MOE rose by 25%–35% under optimal oil-heat conditions. In tensile, MOE increased by 30%, and maximum tensile stress improved by up to 130%. Oleothermal treatments yielded the most stable enhancements, whereas severe hydrothermal treatments sometimes reduced mechanical performance despite improving moisture resistance. Multivariate analysis (PCA) and response surface methodology (RSM) indicate that oleothermal treatment at 160 °C for 3.5–5 h provides the best compromise between stiffness and color stability. Thermogravimetric analyses (TG/DTG) show hydrothermal treatment promotes hemicelluloses degradation, whereas oleothermal treatment stabilizes the cellulose–lignin network. Overall, hydrothermal treatment enhances dimensional stability, while oleothermal treatment achieves an optimal balance of stiffness, mechanical performance, and color retention. Deep color changes from furanic resin formation under hydrothermal conditions are strongly suppressed by oil during oleothermal processing, yielding lighter and more durable wood. For commercial applications such as furniture and structural components, oleothermal treatment is recommended, whereas hydrothermal treatment is more suitable when dimensional stability is prioritized over mechanical performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wood Testing, Processing and Modification)
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16 pages, 5587 KB  
Article
Experiments and Simulation on the Effects of Arch Height Variation on the Vibrational Response of Paulownia Wood
by Xiyue Li, Siyuan Wang, Yaqing Guo, Juncheng Zhang, Lan He, Jing Zhou, Yuanyuan Miao and Zhenbo Liu
Forests 2025, 16(3), 545; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16030545 - 19 Mar 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1196
Abstract
Resonance boards of Chinese traditional instruments such as the Guzheng and Guqin typically are arched, with the arch height influencing their resonance characteristics. This study focuses on Paulownia wood utilized for resonance boards. The bottom surfaces were thinned in 1 mm increments, with [...] Read more.
Resonance boards of Chinese traditional instruments such as the Guzheng and Guqin typically are arched, with the arch height influencing their resonance characteristics. This study focuses on Paulownia wood utilized for resonance boards. The bottom surfaces were thinned in 1 mm increments, with vibration signatures acquired at each reduction stage using a multi-channel FFT analyzer. Subsequently, time-domain characteristic parameters of the signals were extracted through MATLAB-based signal processing. Modal and harmonic response simulations of the structure were conducted using finite element software. The results indicated that variations in arch height affected the frequency spectrum response of the vibrations of Paulownia wood, altering the structural energy radiation levels. Lower arch heights (0–2 mm) had a greater impact on the fundamental frequency. The arch height was 1 mm and 2 mm, with R1,1 and R1,2 being −5.31% and −8.62%, respectively. Skewness and kurtosis were negatively correlated with arch height. When ΔH was 3.06, the radiation effect was optimal. The changes in arch height influenced the vibrational modes and energy distribution of Paulownia. Higher arch heights (3–6 mm) have less effect on the fundamental frequency and impose some constraints on the mode vibration pattern. Furthermore, the results of the frequency-domain and time-domain analyses were found to be largely consistent with the finite element simulation results. The results provide guidance for changing the arch height to modulate the acoustic vibration response of the resonance board, which is of significance for the personalized design of future musical instruments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wood Testing, Processing and Modification)
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22 pages, 25083 KB  
Article
Multi-Physical Field Coupling Simulation and Experimental Study on the Radiation Characteristics of Sawing Noise from Circular Saw Blades in Woodworking
by Na Jia, Lei Guo, Yongying Zhang and Jiuqing Liu
Forests 2025, 16(3), 442; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16030442 - 28 Feb 2025
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1631
Abstract
High-precision noise radiation characterization is essential for designing circular saw blades aimed at vibration and noise reduction. However, previous studies have generally overlooked the effects of thermal stress, centrifugal force, and cutting force on the acoustic performance of saw blades during the cutting [...] Read more.
High-precision noise radiation characterization is essential for designing circular saw blades aimed at vibration and noise reduction. However, previous studies have generally overlooked the effects of thermal stress, centrifugal force, and cutting force on the acoustic performance of saw blades during the cutting process. This paper proposes a multi-physics field coupling analysis method based on FEM/BEM joint simulation technology. By performing thermal-force coupling analysis to obtain the sawing vibration response, the resulting vibration acceleration is introduced into the acoustic–solid coupling model to predict the frequency-domain characteristics and spatial distribution of sawing noise. The validity of the simulation results is verified through sawing noise test experiments. The study shows that the circular saw blade radiates the most noise when sawing in the mid-frequency band from 500 Hz to 8000 Hz, while the noise radiation efficiency is lower in both the low-frequency band and the high-frequency band. The multi-physical field coupling simulation method can significantly improve the calculation accuracy of the frequency-domain characteristics of sawing noise. The vibration noise of the circular saw blade shows clear directional distribution at different excitation frequencies, while the directionality of the experimentally measured noise is less distinct. Furthermore, based on the noise radiation characteristics, this study explores the design strategies of noise reduction slots and sound barriers, which provide references for the noise control and vibration damping design of circular saw blades. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wood Testing, Processing and Modification)
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14 pages, 4992 KB  
Article
Investigation into Adhesion of Coatings and Adhesives of Eucalyptus and Grey Poplar for Building Applications
by Csilla Csiha, Tamás Hofmann and Omar Saber Zinad
Forests 2025, 16(2), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16020287 - 7 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1290
Abstract
This study investigated the bonding strength and chemical composition (as an influencing factor of adhesion) of red eucalyptus (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) (EUW) and grey poplar (Populus canescens) (GPOW) wood surfaces, comparing their suitability for indoor and outdoor wood-building applications. The [...] Read more.
This study investigated the bonding strength and chemical composition (as an influencing factor of adhesion) of red eucalyptus (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) (EUW) and grey poplar (Populus canescens) (GPOW) wood surfaces, comparing their suitability for indoor and outdoor wood-building applications. The research focused on adhesion strength using different coatings and adhesives, including lasure and 2K lacquer. The results showed that whilst both wood species had a conveniently high cellulose content, GPOW had a higher cellulose content (48.21%) than EUW (45.18%). However, EUW demonstrated superiority in tensile shear strength tests when using structural adhesives. Additionally, EUW exhibited stronger pull-off adhesion with 2K lacquer (5.25 MPa) compared with GPOW (3.42 MPa), suggesting that whilst both reached the expectations, EUW was more appropriate for high-stress indoor applications like flooring or wall cladding. EUW and GPOW performed well with lasure, achieving comparable adhesion strengths. EUW had a density of 1020 kg/m3 vs. 575 kg/m3 for GPOW and stronger bonding capabilities than GPOW, which suggests that it is equally suitable for wood applications inside and outside buildings. The study concluded that whilst both wood species met expectations and proved to be suitable for doors, windows, and other wood-building product applications, GPOW was suitable for the production of cellulose-based products, while EUW was worth relying on for its excellent adhesion to coatings and adhesives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wood Testing, Processing and Modification)
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Review

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28 pages, 3383 KB  
Review
Evaluation of Biomass Softwood Composites: Structural Features and Functional Properties of Advanced Engineered Wood
by Ria Aniza, Anelie Petrissans, Mathieu Petrissans, Erlan Rosyadi, Hana Nabila Anindita, Tyas Puspita Rini, Zulaicha Dwi Hastuti, Nurdiah Rahmawati, Bralin Dwiratna, Ena Marlina, Akhmad Faruq Alhikami and I Dewa Ayu Agung Warmadewanthi
Forests 2025, 16(12), 1823; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16121823 - 5 Dec 2025
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1609
Abstract
Softwood-based composites are increasingly used in structural and nonstructural applications owing to their renewability, cost-effectiveness, and favorable strength-to-weight performance. This study applies a systematic literature review and comparative analysis, drawing on approximately 140 sources, to synthesize current knowledge on the physicochemical, mechanical, thermal, [...] Read more.
Softwood-based composites are increasingly used in structural and nonstructural applications owing to their renewability, cost-effectiveness, and favorable strength-to-weight performance. This study applies a systematic literature review and comparative analysis, drawing on approximately 140 sources, to synthesize current knowledge on the physicochemical, mechanical, thermal, and environmental characteristics of engineered wood products derived from softwood species. The intrinsic lignocellulosic composition of softwood, comprising roughly 40%–45% cellulose, 25%–30% hemicelluloses (with mannose as the predominant sugar), and 27%–30% lignin, strongly influences hydrophilicity, stiffness, and thermal behavior. Mechanical properties vary across engineered wood product classes; for example, plywood exhibits a modulus of rupture of 33.72–42.61 MPa and a modulus of elasticity of 6.96–8.55 GPa. Microstructural and spectroscopic analyses highlight the importance of fiber–matrix interactions, chemical bonding, and surface modifications in determining composite performance. Emerging advanced materials, such as scrimber, with densities of 800–1390 kg/m3, and fluorescent transparent wood, achieving optical transmittance above 70%–85%, demonstrate the expanding functional potential of softwood-based composites. Sustainability assessments indicate that coatings, flame-retardants, and adhesives may contribute to volatile organic compound emissions, emphasizing the need for lower-emission, bio-based alternatives. Overall, the findings of this systematic review show that softwood-based composites deliver robust, quantifiable performance advantages and hold strong potential to meet the rising demand for sustainable, low-carbon engineered materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wood Testing, Processing and Modification)
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