Wood Biology and Wood Products

Structural characterisation

Microscopy

As the classic imaging examination method in wood research, microscopy enables detailed images with high magnification. The range of applications for microscopy is very broad and in the Department of Wood Biology and Wood Products includes fluorescence microscopic examination of the transport of preservatives in wood, the detection of wood degradation by fungi and topographical examination of the surface properties of materials. In addition to light microscopy (fluorescence microscopy, digital microscopy and laser scanning microscopy), scanning electron microscopy is also used.


Tomography

X-ray-based micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) enables the non-destructive and three-dimensional (3D) characterisation of the complex structure of wood-based materials. The possibility of visually and quantitatively investigating the morphological structure of wood in 3D opens up new perspectives and approaches for research with and on wood. Micro-CT is used wherever conventional microscopy can no longer be used effectively and where 3D analyses (e.g. porosity measurements) are required. Micro-CT data also makes it possible to print 3D models of structures/objects using a 3D printer.


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