ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the surface activation and surface thermoplasticization of wood, and discusses the production of hot-melted and self-bonded boards through surface thermoplasticization of wood particles. Introduction of functional groups to wood is mainly achieved in the liquid phase using strong acids, allylation, or esterification. Because wood is a porous and bulky material these treatments need an excess of reaction reagents. Treated woods are also damaged by the high temperatures, strong acids, or swelling agents used in the reactions and this results in decreased mechanical strength. For these reasons, vapor phase treatments are preferable for the surface modification of wood. Plasma treatment is a very interesting and unique technique for wood surface modification. The bonding mechanisms of surface oxidation treatments have not been fully clarified, but it is likely that crosslinking or condensation reactions between activated particles play an important role. Introduction of carbonyl or carboxyl groups is one of the most effective simple activation treatments for wood surfaces.
