Pore analysis of thermally compressed Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) by mercury intrusion porosimetry

In focus of the present study was the mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) of heartwood (hW) and sapwood (sW) of Scots pine, which were modified by compression alone (C) and combination of C and heat treatment (CHT). The untreated sW has a more uniform pore distribution than that of hW as presented in logarithmic differential curves. Expectedly, the total pore volumes of CHThW and CHTsW are significantly decreased. Compared to the HT temperature (180-220 degrees C), the exposure time (2-5 h) has a weaker effect on the pore structures of the CHT woods. Furthermore, the intrusion volume of CHThW decreased compared with compressed alone samples. However, an inverse result was apparent for CHTsW.