Abstract:
Disclosed is a method for the continuous impregnation of wood elements, such as wood chips. The method comprises the subsequent steps of subjecting the wood elements to vacuum, to contact with acetylation fluid, and to impregnation pressure. Preferably, the process is conducted in a plant having conveyors, such as transportation screws, in suitable positions between the zones in which the subsequent process steps are conducted. The impregnation method is used in connection with the acetylation of the wood elements, and preferably is followed by a continuous acetylation process conducted in an acetylation reaction zone downstream of the zone where the impregnation is conducted.
Abstract:
Disclosed is the integration of the production of acetic anhydride from ketene, and the acetylation of wood using acetylation fluid comprising acetic acid and acetic anhydride. The invention involves recirculating acetylation fluid recovered from wood acetylation to a unit for the production of acetic anhydride from acetic acid and ketene. The acetic anhydride product stream can, in turn, be directly used as a wood acetylation fluid.
Abstract:
The process according to the present invention allows to acetylate wood elements to a high acetyl content in a very efficient way, without compromising on the quality of the material. The acetylated wood elements can be used in the production of medium density fibreboards with superior qualities such as dimensional stability and durability.
Abstract:
Disclosed is the integration of the production of acetic anhydride from ketene, and the acetylation of wood using acetylation fluid comprising acetic acid and acetic anhydride. The invention involves combining acetic acid obtained from distillation of acetylation fluid with a residual aqueous acetic acid stream as obtained from ketene production.