Moisture Mapping is a field that explores the moisture content of wood and its impact on various aspects of wood properties and performance.
Wood moisture content significantly influences wood's strength, durability, and dimensional stability. It is expressed as a percentage of the dry weight of the wood, and this moisture can vary greatly, depending on factors such as the species of wood, environmental conditions, and the presence of moisture sources.
Surprisingly, the answer to this question is yes. Wood can contain over 100% moisture content, a condition known as "above fiber saturation point." In this state, the wood's cell walls are fully saturated with water, and any additional moisture is held in the cell cavities and other voids.
This condition can occur when wood is exposed to prolonged periods of high humidity or direct water contact. Wood containing over 100% moisture content is more susceptible to decay, rot, and mold growth, leading to a decline in its strength and durability.
Moisture Mapping techniques can help detect areas of high moisture content in wood, allowing for timely intervention and preventive measures to protect the wood from further damage.