The Technology Behind Accoya
The Accoya production process does not weaken the original wood – in fact, its hardness is slightly improved and its bending strength uncompromised. Indeed, no modification process exists which offers the performance benefits and retained physical properties of Accoya.
The process alters the cell structure of wood, improving its technical properties and making it much stronger and more durable. Unmodified wood contains ‘free hydroxyl groups’ that absorb and release water as weather conditions change.
This makes standard wood susceptible to expansion and contraction, particularly when used outdoors for applications such as cladding, window and door frames.
The expansion and contraction of wood often leads to splitting and rotting, impacting on the service life of wood. Hydrogen, oxygen and carbon chemicals (called acetyl groups) are created within wood after the acetylation process, changing the structure of existing free hydroxyl groups (hydrogen and oxygen). Each of these chemicals is present naturally in all woods, with acetyl created independently from acetic acid, i.e. vinegar. The process is ‘green’ meaning that the acetylation process takes effect using nothing that doesn’t occur in wood naturally.
Read more in our blog: What is Acetylation?
Where to Buy
You can buy Accoya and Accoya products from our selection of distributors or manufacturers in your region. Use our map search tool to find your nearest Accoya supplier.