Moisture Mapping plays a crucial role in determining the moisture content of wood, a key factor in assessing wood’s stability, durability, and susceptibility to damage. Wood moisture content (MC) refers to the amount of moisture present in the wood’s mass, expressed as a percentage. Understanding MC is essential for various applications, including construction, woodworking, and timber management.
Typically, wood moisture content should not exceed 100%. This threshold signifies that the wood has absorbed the maximum amount of water possible. However, under certain circumstances, wood may contain moisture content above 100%. This phenomenon can occur when the wood is immersed in water or exposed to a very humid environment for an extended period. In such cases, the wood’s cells become fully saturated with water, and additional water can be absorbed into the cell walls and lumens. This excess water results in a moisture content exceeding 100%.
It is worth noting that wood with moisture content above 100% is highly unstable and susceptible to damage. The excess moisture can cause the wood to swell, warp, or even rot. Therefore, it is crucial to prevent wood from reaching such high moisture levels. Moisture Mapping can help identify areas of high moisture content in wood, allowing for prompt intervention and moisture control measures.