Color response in silver birch during kiln-drying

Color change in silver birch caused by kiln-drying is a major down-grading factor and has substantial economical impact on high value furniture and flooring production. This study investigates the color responses to process parameters at different stages in the drying process. Samples were dried in a climate chamber and laboratory kilns and the color of drywood was registered according to the CIE L*C*h color system. The results show that during the capillary drying phase (moisture content >55%) time is more important than temperature. Swift initial drying even at elevated temperatures increases the lightness and decreases the saturation. The major color changes occur later on, during the diffusive drying phase from approximately 30 to 20 percent moisture content. Here a combination of temperature, time, and initial moisture content is decisive for the final wood color. Swift drying in both stages even at moderately elevated temperatures results in a highly desirable brighter color.

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