Surface characterization and paint bonding quality on chemically and thermally modified short rotation teak wood

ABSTRACT Chemical and thermal modification can change the hydrophilic properties of wood, and thus affect their coating performance. This study determined the surface characteristics of chemically and thermally modified short rotation teak wood. The characteristics studied were surface roughness, surface free energy (SFE), contact angle, wettability, and coating bonding quality. Results show that the surface of short rotation teak became smoother after chemical and thermal modifications; however, surface roughness increased after furfurylation. The total SFE of chemically and thermally modified teak wood decreased after treatment. The decrease in the total SFE caused the decrease in the constant contact angle change rate (K-value). The K-values for water-dispersed polyurethane and acrylic paints were nearly 0, which indicated their lower wettability. The paint bonding quality decreased after accelerated weathering. Short rotation teak with Glycerol-Maleic Anhydride (GMA)-thermal treatment can be considered for exterior applications with a proper selection of paint.