Blog - Wood Work Science

How Do Compression and Tension Really Work in Wood?

Compression vs. tension in wood fibers: how structural loads flow, grain, moisture, defects, failure modes, and design.

Steam bending physics: plasticizing lignin & cellulose for niche wood research, materials science, and wood materials Q&A.

Compare oils for wood finishing and wood therapy: tung, linseed, danish, mineral; drying times, uses, safety, and upkeep.

Why adsorption and desorption rates differ in wood; factors, hysteresis, modeling and measurement; drying/finishing implications.

Best oils for wooden utensils and cutting boards; pore structure, absorption, and food-safety implications.

Hardwood vs softwood contrast and how Janka hardness guides woodworking choices, with density, durability, and workability tips.

Calculate wood expansion: compare radial vs tangential shrinkage ratios, formulas, examples, and answers to wood questions.

Wood stain chemistry: dye vs pigment, penetration, bonding; selection, prep, application, drying; topcoat compatibility.

EMC in wood: how moisture drives movement; what affects EMC (RH, temperature, species); measurement, calculation, management.

Basswood grain structure and carving physics: tool interaction, grain direction, tear-out, density, moisture, practical tips.