Performance assessment of a novel electrical conductivity-based instrument for stratified moisture content measurement in wood

Abstract Moisture content (MC) plays a crucial role in determining the mechanical and physical properties of wood, including strength, stiffness, and dimensional stability. Stratified MC measurement is particularly valuable for understanding the moisture distribution across different layers of wood, which is essential for optimizing wood processing and applications. However, existing stratified MC measurement methods are often time-consuming, costly, and complex, limiting their widespread use in industrial settings. This study proposes a novel, non-destructive method for stratified MC measurement based on the electrical conductivity of wood. By utilizing the relationship between electrical conductivity and moisture distribution, this method provides a rapid, accurate, and cost-effective alternative. Experimental comparisons with the slice methods and the single-sided nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) validate the accuracy of the proposed method, with average errors controlled within ±1 %, and the measurement time limited to 10 s. The newly developed instrument is portable, efficient, and easy to operate, making it highly suitable for real-time applications in academic research and industrial settings. By addressing the limitations of existing methods, this technology significantly enhances measurement efficiency. Moreover, it improves resource utilization and reduces energy consumption, thereby promoting sustainable practices in the wood industry.