Changes in Cedar (Cedrus libani) Wood Properties in a Hot and Humid Environment

Abstract In this study, changes in the chemical and physical properties of cedar ( Cedrus libani A. Richard) wood in hot and humid environments (sauna) were investigated. The amount of extractive substances was determined by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis in cedar wood, followed by pH measurement and an evaluation of its mechanical properties. Mechanical tests were performed; there was a general decrease in the bending strength (modulus of rupture) values of the cedar wood. The modulus of elasticity results calculated for the same variations show differences due to the physical, chemical, and mechanical changes that occur in the structure of the samples exposed to the hot and humid environment. According to the structure determination (FTIR) analysis results, the hot and humid environment caused an increase in the amount of free O–H groups in the cedar wood, and this effect peaked at the 128-hour variation. The cedar samples in variations resulted in some changes in pH levels due to being exposed to temperature and washing for certain periods of time. As a result of the conditioning process, some changes occurred in the wood’s chemical and mechanical properties. These included deterioration of the external appearance of the wood, a decrease in its odor, and changes in its mechanical resistance.