This compact guide to wood drying and thermal treatmend provides readers with both theoretical background and practical insights. It can be used for training at universities and for independent acquisition of industry-oriented knowledge on wood drying and wood steaming of various wood species.

The authors begin by explaining the purpose and economic significance of thermal treatment of wood, the wood-moisture-heat system, the theoretical principles, and the modeling of wood drying. They discuss in detail the objectives, processes, and technology of sawn timber drying, veneer drying, and wood particle drying. This is followed by the theoretical principles and modeling of wood steaming as a form of hydrothermal treatment, which can be used to specifically control the softening of wood by steam. Sections on the objectives, processes, and technology of steaming blocks for veneer production, sawn timber, and wood for bending round off the presentation.

Readers gain insight not only into proven methods, but also into modern technological developments in wood drying. Numerous examples from industrial practice illustrate the complex processes and make them easy to understand. The book is therefore suitable for both students of wood-related courses and practitioners in the woodworking industry.