Wood Materials and Engineering Laboratory
Vikram Yadama
Engineering Opportunities for the Forest Products Industry
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Converting low-value woody materials into high-value wood composite products would benefit areas of the U.S. dealing with forest health issues, such as fire safety in urban interface communities bordering public lands, and insect and disease-related salvage. Such an industry would also address economic issues such as disposal of wood waste by wood processors, and the loss of jobs in timber dependent communities struggling with economic stability.
Dr. Yadama is currently investigating methods to improve the durability of products such as oriented strand board (OSB), a commonly used sheathing material in most homes built in North America. OSB has the ability to absorb and dissipate moisture, but poor construction practices and improper use of moisture barriers have resulted in OSB panels that are often exposed to high humidity, resulting in rapid degradation due to severe moisture cycling and decay from wood-destroying organisms.
Studies on wood plastic composites have shown that maleic anhydride modified polyolefins (MAPO) provide a bond between wood fillers containing hydroxyl groups and the polymer matrix, leading to enhanced performance of these composites. Dr. Yadama leads a project funded by the Office of Naval Research that investigates methods of incorporating MAPO in the resin bonding wood-strand substrates. This imparts toughness to the resin and decreases moisture absorption by forming a barrier between the wood and moisture and by bulking voids in the composite. Preliminary results indicate improvement in resin stiffness and toughness that could lead to a more durable product.
Dr. Yadama is also focusing on using low-value insect damaged wood and residues from primary and secondary wood manufacturers to create value-added wood-plastic composites. In a joint venture with scientists from the Pacific Northwest Research Station, Dr. Yadama investigates the use of extrusion technology to manufacture wood-plastic composites from dead and dying spruce. He is also working with a primary Washington manufacturer of wood products to determine an appropriate formulation to re-direct wood residues into value-added WPC decking and other niche products. The impact could be significant to the economic stability of the company and the community.
Contact
Information
Vikram Yadama, Ph.D.
Assistant Research Professor and Extension Specialist
Wood Materials and Engineering Laboratory
Washington State University
PO Box 641806
Pullman, WA 99164-1806
Telephone: 509-335-6261
E-mail: vyadama@wsu.edu
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