Retention and penetration of Celcure (ACC) at different heights and moisture contents of poplar (Populus nigra var. horizontalis) by modified Rueping process

We determined celcure (ACC) retention and penetration at bottom, middle and top of the poplar tree (Populus nigra var. horizontalis) at three moisture contents (MC 12%, 20% and 40%). The impregnation was performed using a modified Rueping process. Both mean liquid retention (LR) and penetration depth (PD) were significantly increased with increasing height of trees and decreasing moisture content. Wood density (WD) and MC were significantly and negatively correlatied with mean LR and PD. The maximum LR and PD were at MC of 12% followed by 20%. The post-treatment WD increased due to LR at each level of moisture content and tree height. Distribution of preservative liquid in the cross sectional area of some treated samples was uneven due to the presence of wet pockets. This counteracted proper penetration of the preservatives. Moisture content and WD had a significant negative influence on LR and PD. Kiln-drying is an effective way to reduce the moisture content and enhance the impregnation quality.