Torrified Ash Wood has undergone a thermal process, this process modifies the intern structure of the wood by applying heat in an oxygen-free environment. The aging of the wood achieved by torrefaction process is similar to that achieved naturally oven the years. This process improves a better stability, decreases the capacity to absorb moisture, increases the speed of sound, decreases the weight of the wood, and it gives the wood a deep colour and enhances the wood grain. This heating process does not affect acoustic properties and is much appreciated by most luthiers.
Qualities resulting from torrefaction process application:
- Improves stability.
- Decreases the capacity to absorb moisture.
- Harden cell walls.
- The resins crystallize and partially evaporate.
- Increases stiffness (flexural strength).
- Cleans pore wood.
- Increases the speed of sound.
- Richer deep colour.
- Makes the weight lighter
Conclusion:
Torrefaction process does not transform worse quality wood into a better one, but it turns significantly good properties even better.