MDF treatment with a Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) torch

A Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) torch has been designed for the treatment of several wood species and composites. This paper presents some results obtained onto Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) samples. The aim of the treatments was to improve their wetting properties. Tests made before and after treatments showed improvements of surface wetting and have been correlated with surface chemical composition. It also has been shown that the treatment effect is ephemeral.