Wood Moisture Content: An Overview
Wood moisture content (MC) refers to the amount of water present within a piece of wood compared to its dry weight. It significantly impacts the wood’s properties, such as its strength, durability, and suitability for different applications.
Wood is classified into three MC categories:
- Green Wood: MC above 20%
- Seasoned Wood: MC between 6-20%
- Dry Wood: MC below 6%
Ideal Moisture Content for Firewood
For firewood, an ideal moisture content of around 15-20% is recommended. This range provides efficient burning while minimizing excessive smoke and reducing the risk of creosote buildup.
When firewood is too wet (MC above 20%), it releases excess moisture during combustion, resulting in decreased heat output and slower burning. Additionally, the smoke produced contains higher levels of unburned particles, potentially leading to air quality issues.
Conversely, when firewood is too dry (MC below 15%), it burns rapidly, reducing its burn time and heating potential. It can also ignite quickly, posing safety concerns.
Hence, it is crucial to ensure that firewood has an appropriate moisture content to achieve optimal burning efficiency and safety.