Numerical evaluation of beechwood discolouration during drying

The effect of moisture content, time and drying rate on the extent and intensity of discolouration of beech wood was examined. The values of the CIELab colour system (DL*, Da*, Db*, DE*, DH*, DC*) during drying at a constant temperature and by two different relative humidity (j1 = 33% and j2 = 65%) from surface to core were obtained. During slower drying, discolouration through the entire cross section was observed. L* and DE* values were much lower at the centre of the board. Only the core was stained during quicker drying. The moisture content from MC = 43 % to MC = 22 % was defined as critical for discolouration.