Procedure for the treatment of wood

Description

1 METHOD FOR THE TREATMENT OF WOOD TECHNICAL DOMAIN The invention relates to a method for the treatment of wood. 5 STANDARD TECHNOLOGY The standard technique in the field of woodworking and the treatment of wood for structural applications involves various advanced processes, but significant challenges remain in improving the durability, aesthetic properties, and efficiency of these treatments. One of the most important steps in woodworking is surface preparation, which is crucial for the adhesion of coatings and finishing layers. Traditional methods offer solutions but are not always consistent in achieving optimal adhesion, especially when the wood contains resin galls or other irregularities that can affect the finish. The use of abrasives with coarse or inconsistent grit sizes can lead to uneven surface treatment, resulting in less durable finishes and increased risk of peeling or wear of coatings.20 In addition to the mechanical treatment of the wood, coatings and finishing layers play a key role in extending the lifespan of the treated wood. Coatings that offer insufficient adhesion, due to incorrect viscosity or drying speed, cannot effectively guarantee protection against moisture, UV radiation, and other environmental factors.25 Commonly used coatings contain solvents, which can not only be harmful to the environment but also affect the health of workers. Furthermore, the drying times of these coatings can be long, which delays production and reduces the overall efficiency of woodworking. 30 Another problem that often occurs in woodworking is the lack of control over the processing of different wood species, such as cross-laminated timber (CLT). Wood species such as pine and spruce can vary in density and resin content, which has a significant impact on the effectiveness of the treatment processes. 35 In addition, the challenge was achieving consistent results when applying finishing coats.Many traditional methods offer insufficient control over the viscosities and drying time of the finishing layers, which leads to an uneven finish that cannot meet the requirements of both commercial and residential applications. Furthermore, the use of standard application techniques such as manual application or spraying techniques without precise control can lead to variations in layer thickness and finish, resulting in less durable protection of the wood.5 The present invention aims to find a solution to at least some of the above-mentioned problems. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION10 The invention concerns an invention in a method for treating wood. This method comprises a step in which wood is pre-treated. The pre-treatment may consist of air blasting and / or sanding the wood. Subsequently, the wood is coated and rubbed with a sponge. Finally, a finishing layer is applied.15 The air blasting is performed with a spray nozzle with a diameter between 6 mm and 10 mm and a grain size between 0.1 mm and 1.0 mm, at a pressure between 4 bar and 7 bar.Sanding is performed with zirconium oxide comprising a grit between 100 and 120, according to claim 1. Further preferred forms are described in claims 2 to 12. 20 DETAILED DESCRIPTION In a first aspect, the invention concerns a method for treating wood. This procedure comprises a step in which the wood is pre-treated. The pre-treatment can consist of air blasting and / or sanding the wood. Afterwards, the wood is coated and wiped with a sponge. Finally, a finishing coat is applied. Air blasting is performed using a spray nozzle with a diameter between 6 mm and 10 mm and a grit size between 0.1 mm and 1.0 mm, at a pressure between 4 and 7 bar. Sanding is performed with zirconium oxide containing a grit between 100 and 120. Woodworking is a versatile process that depends on the intended applications and aesthetic requirements of the end product. Pre- and post-treatments are essential to improve the functionality, durability, and appearance of the wood. Techniques such as air blasting and sanding play an important role in the pre-treatment.35 Air blasting is a refined surface treatment technique that is particularly suitable for cleaning and restoring wood without compromising its integrity. The process uses a fine stream of abrasive medium that is blown onto the surface under pressure BE2024 / 5856 3. Unlike traditional sandblasting methods, air blasting is less aggressive and offers greater control over the intensity of the treatment, making it suitable for delicate materials such as wood. By using different grit sizes and air pressure settings, the technique can be tailored to specific applications, from removing old paint and varnish layers to refreshing weathered wood. An important advantage of air blasting is that it produces a uniform and natural result. No chemical treatment is applied during air blasting, making it not only environmentally friendly but also reducing the risk of damage from moisture10 or aggressive substances.This makes it particularly suitable for applications where the original textures and appearance of the wood must be preserved, such as in restoration projects or the treatment of decorative wood in interiors. 15 In addition, the process offers a high degree of precision, allowing for selective work. This is especially important when working with complex wood structures, such as veneer layers or wood with pronounced grain patterns. Due to the variable settings, such as the nozzle diameter (in this case between 6 and 10 mm), the grit size (between 0.1 and 1.0 mm), and the pressure (between 4 and 7 bar), the air blasting can be adapted to both soft and hardwood. This flexibility makes it applicable in a wide range of situations, from industrial woodworking to artisanal applications. Another aspect is the preparation that air blasting offers for further treatments. By lightly sanding and cleaning the surface, the adhesion of coatings and finishing layers is improved.This not only increases the durability of the wood, but also ensures that the finishing layer is applied evenly, without irregularities or air bubbles. Sanding is a versatile technique in woodworking, with the primary goal of smoothing the surface of the wood, removing irregularities, and preparing it for further treatments. This mechanical operation can be performed manually or by machine, depending on the scale and complexity of the application. The use of sandpaper with a grit specifically tailored to the intended results, such as a grit of 100 to 120 with zirconium oxide, offers an effective balance between thoroughness and finesse. BE2024 / 5856 4 Sanding with a grit of 100 to 120 smooths the wood without damaging the natural grain or texture. This grit size is suitable for leveling surfaces and removing minor imperfections such as small scratches or rough spots.The use of zirconium oxide as an abrasive offers additional benefits: this material is known for its durability and self-sharpening properties, which means that it retains its sharp edges during use. This makes the sanding process more efficient and the results consistent, even with harder wood or long-term applications. An important aspect of sanding is the preparation it provides for subsequent treatments such as coatings or finishing layers. A well-sanded surface ensures better adhesion of coatings, which is crucial for the durability and appearance of the final product. Sanding removes dirt, dust, and old layers, creating a clean and uniform base. Moreover, careful sanding makes the absorption of protective or decorative finishes more even, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing and durable result. In addition to the technical aspect, sanding also contributes to the aesthetic quality of the wood. It accentuates the natural grain and color of the material, giving the wood a refined appearance.Sanding is also versatile in application. While coarser grits (such as 80 or lower) are suitable for quickly removing old layers or shaping wood, a medium grit such as 100-120 is used for fine finishing and surface preparation. This intermediate step ensures that the wood is smooth enough for finishing, without losing the character of the material. The method according to the present invention was developed after a time-consuming and complex process of optimization, after which the resulting method and associated parameters ensure better pre-treated wood. 30 After pretreatment, the wood is provided with a protective or decorative coating, which is often applied with precision to ensure optimal adhesion. Wiping with a sponge contributes to a uniform distribution of the coatings and minimizes unwanted accumulation or streaks. Finally, a finishing layer is applied to protect the wood against external influences35 and to enhance aesthetic properties, such as a glossy or matte appearance.These post-treatments ensure that the wood is not only functional, but also visually appealing and durable. BE2024 / 5856 5 By combining air blasting, sanding, and high-quality finishing layers, the described method offers a comprehensive approach to wood treatment, suitable for various applications in both structural and decorative contexts. 5 In one form, the wood is cross-laminated timber (CLT), an innovative and versatile material consisting of cross-glued layers of solid wood. This structure gives CLT a unique combination of strength, stability, and durability, making it a popular choice in the modern construction sector, with applications ranging from load-bearing structures to high-quality aesthetic interior elements.10 Furthermore, CLT offers significant advantages in terms of sustainability, because it is a renewable building material and causes less CO₂ emissions during production than traditional building materials such as concrete or steel.In one execution form, CLT wood includes pine, spruce, oak, larch, pine, poplar, Douglas fir, beech, maple, chestnut, ash, walnut, acacia, iroko, meranti, or combinations thereof. By using different wood species, the performance of CLT can be tailored to specific requirements. For example, oak wood offers high density and excellent wear resistance, making it suitable for applications requiring a high degree of load or durability. Pine and spruce wood, on the other hand, are lighter and easier to work with, making them suitable for applications where weight and ease of processing are important factors. The choice of a specific wood species is often determined by the balance between strength, aesthetics, and availability. 25 In a preferred form, CLT includes pine or spruce, wood species known for their excellent strength-to-weight ratio. These softwood species have a straight grain structure and are relatively uniform, which not only ensures a consistent aesthetic but also contributes to the structural performance of the CLT.Moreover, pine and spruce wood are economically attractive because they are available in large quantities and grow quickly, making them a sustainable choice for large-scale production of CLT. Additionally, these wood species have good bonding and processing properties, which is important for the production of high-quality CLT panels. The use of pine or spruce wood in CLT also offers advantages in terms of thermal insulation and acoustics. These wood species have natural insulating properties, which contributes to an energy-efficient building. Furthermore, they provide a warm and inviting appearance, which makes CLT attractive for use in visible structures, such as interior walls, floors, or ceilings. In one finished form, the CLA is a type of wood containing resin galls of a maximum of 6mm x 80mm. Resin galls are natural irregularities in wood, where resin accumulates in small pockets or channels.These are typical of certain softwood species, such as pine or spruce, and do not impede the structural use of the material as long as they remain within specific dimensions. By limiting the resin galls to a maximum size of 6 mm in width and 80 mm in length, it is ensured that the CLT retains its strength and homogeneity, while the natural character of the wood remains visible. This size limitation prevents the resin galls from having a negative effect on the adhesion of the layers in the CLT or on the aesthetic quality of visible surfaces. The permitted size makes it possible to use wood more efficiently by also using wood with minor irregularities, which contributes to sustainable and economical processing of raw materials. Moreover, resin galls of this size are stable and have no influence on the long-term performance of the CLT, such as load resistance or thermal performance.20 Wood species with small resin galls are often preferred in applications where aesthetics play a subordinate role or where the visible surface of the CLT is further finished, for example by painting, staining, or laminating. This makes it possible to economically utilize natural variations in wood without compromising the structural integrity of the material.25 In one form, post-treatment CLT is suitable for industrial, commercial, and residential contexts, thanks to the versatility and adaptability the material offers. Through treatment, consisting of pre-treatments such as air blasting and sanding, and post-treatments such as coating and the application of a protective finishing layer, the CLT becomes not only visually more attractive but also more durable and more resistant to various conditions. In an industrial context, treated CLT offers excellent properties for applications such as factory halls, warehouses, and technical installations.The improved durability and resistance to environmental influences, such as moisture and wear, make the material suitable for intensive use in demanding conditions. Additionally, the treatment ensures that the surface is easy to maintain and clean, which is of crucial importance in industries where hygiene and efficiency are priorities. In commercial applications, such as retail spaces, offices, and hospitality establishments, treated CLT combines functionality with aesthetics. The natural appearance of wood contributes to a warm and inviting environment, while the protective finish ensures a long service life and resistance to daily wear. Moreover, the treated CLT can be adapted to specific requirements, such as a glossy or matte finish, or a color that matches the interior design of the commercial space. Thanks to the versatility of the material, it can be used both as a load-bearing element and in decorative applications.In a residential context, treated CLT is ideally suited for use in homes and other residential projects. It offers not only a high-quality aesthetic finish but also excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, which contributes to a comfortable and energy-efficient living environment. Treatments such as coatings and finishing layers provide extra protection against household stresses, such as scratches, spills, and variations in humidity. As a result, the material remains in excellent condition for years, even with intensive use. 20 Due to the combination of strength, aesthetics, and durable properties, treated CLT is an ideal choice for diverse applications in the industrial, commercial, and residential sectors. The treatments and finishes enable the material to meet the high demands of each of these contexts, which further enhances the versatility and value of CLT as a building material. 25 In one execution form, air blasting takes place at a specific pressure, which is tailored to the type of wood and the desired treatment.Pressure plays a role in the process because it directly influences the intensity of the jets and thus the result. In a specific form, pressure values ​​for air blasting can vary between 2 bar and 10 bar. Softwood requires lower pressure to prevent structural damage, while harderwood can tolerate higher pressure values ​​for more efficient removal of irregularities or old finishes. 35 Specifically for the treatment of CLT made of pine or spruce wood, more targeted pressure ranges are used to achieve the desired surface quality without damage to the wood. For example, when air-blasting pine wood, the preference is BE2024 / 5856 8 at a pressure between 2 bar and 8 bar, more preferably between 3 bar and 7 bar, and even more preferably between 4 bar and 5 bar. This pressure is sufficient to remove irregularities and light impurities, while the soft character of pine wood remains intact.For spruce wood, which is slightly harder, higher pressure values ​​are applied, between 3 and 10 bar, preferably between 4 and 8 bar, and even more preferably between 6 and 7 bar. This higher pressure ensures more effective surface treatment without increasing the risk of excessive erosion or damage. After sanding or air-blasting wood, including CLT, a wide range of coatings can be applied to protect and enhance the wood surface. The choice of coating depends on the desired functionality, aesthetics, and specific application of the wood. Coatings serve various purposes, such as increasing durability, providing protection against environmental factors such as moisture and UV radiation, and improving the appearance by accentuating the natural grain and color of the wood. A commonly used option is transparent coatings, such as lacquers or varnishes, which protect the wood surface while preserving the natural beauty of the wood. These coatings can vary from matte to glossy finishes, depending on preference.Transparent coatings are suitable for applications where the aesthetic value of the wood is central, such as with visible CLT panels in residential or commercial buildings. For applications where an extra layer of protection is required, such as outdoor use,25 water- or solvent-based coatings can be used. Water-based coatings are environmentally friendly and have low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Solvent-based coatings, on the other hand, often offer higher resistance to extreme weather conditions and are used in situations where maximum durability is required.30 In addition, there are colorful opaque coatings that combine a decorative function with protection. These coatings are often used when a uniform appearance is desired, for example with wooden facade cladding or interior elements. Opaque coatings can also be chosen to provide color consistency for35 wood species with natural variations or to meet design requirements in architectural projects.BE2024 / 5856 9 For specific industrial applications, specialist coatings such as fire-retardant or anti-slip coatings can be applied. Fire-retardant coatings are essential for applications where strict safety standards apply, such as in public buildings or industrial spaces. Anti-slip coatings can be useful for wooden floors or platforms subject to high loads and where safety is a priority. An emerging category is nano-coatings, which offer an ultra-thin protective layer and make wood water- and dirt-repellent without compromising the natural appearance. These coatings use advanced technology to significantly extend the lifespan of the wood, even under challenging conditions. In one form, the coating used contains no formaldehyde, a choice that aligns with modern requirements regarding environmental friendliness and health.15 Formaldehyde is a substance that was traditionally used in certain coatings and resins because of its binding and preservative properties.However, due to potential health risks, such as respiratory irritation and the potential carcinogenic effect of prolonged exposure, its use is increasingly avoided in both industrial and residential applications.20 Avoiding formaldehyde in coatings offers several benefits. First, it contributes to healthier indoor air quality, which is particularly important in buildings where people stay for long periods, such as homes, offices, and schools. Formaldehyde-free coatings are safer during application, as they do not emit harmful fumes that could harm the applicator or the environment. This makes them suitable for indoor applications and for use in constructions where sustainability and safety are a priority. Additionally, avoiding formaldehyde plays an important role in meeting stricter regulations and certifications for sustainable building materials.Many international standards, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research, Establishment, Environmental Assessment Method), encourage the use of formaldehyde-free products. These coatings help achieve such certifications, making them particularly attractive to architects, contractors, and project developers who prioritize sustainability and environmental friendliness. BE2024 / 5856 10 Formaldehyde-free coatings use alternative binders and additives that deliver comparable performance without the adverse effects. As a result, water-based and plant-based resins are becoming increasingly popular in this category. These alternatives offer excellent protection against wear, moisture, and UV radiation, while simultaneously guaranteeing low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This makes them suitable for a wide range of applications, from visible CLT panels in interiors to wood cladding in exterior applications.In one application form, coatings can also include additional properties, such as antifungal or antimicrobial protection, without the need for harmful chemicals. These properties improve the durability of the wood and make it suitable for applications in damp or hygienically critical environments, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or public spaces. In another application form, the coating used has a drying time of 1 to 15 hours, preferably 2 to 8 hours, even more preferably 3 to 6 hours, and most preferably about 4 hours at 20°C. The drying time is an aspect of the coating process, as it determines how quickly the treated wood surface can be further processed or put into use. It is important that the coating has sufficient time to cure properly and form a firm, protective layer, while at the same time maintaining the required production speed. The drying time of 1 to 10 hours offers a wide range in which various types of coatings, such as water-based or solvent-based products, can cure.This range takes into account factors such as the thickness of the applied layer, the environmental conditions, and the type of coating. In colder or wetter conditions, the curing process may take longer, while at higher temperatures and better ventilation, the coating will dry faster. It is therefore essential to create the right drying conditions for the best result, for example by ensuring that the surface is well ventilated and that the temperature is within the recommended range. Preferably, the drying time is between 2 and 8 hours, which is a suitable time span for most coatings applied to wood. During this period, the coating can form an effective protective layer that is resistant to environmental influences such as moisture, UV radiation, and mechanical stress. This range ensures that the coating adheres firmly without releasing excessive solvents, which can contribute to a healthier working environment.Coatings that dry within this range, BE2024 / 5856 11 are often highly resistant to scratches, wear, and other forms of damage, which contributes to the durability of the treated wood. An even more specific preference is a drying time of 3 to 6 hours, which is suitable for most wood coatings. This timeframe offers sufficient time for the coating to cure, while simultaneously keeping the process efficient, which is important for industrial applications or other scenarios where time pressure plays a role. With this drying time, it is possible to achieve a strong and durable finish that preserves the aesthetics of the wood without problems. This makes it suitable for both visible and structural applications of the treated wood, where the coating does not disturb the natural appearance of the material. The most preferred drying time is approximately 4 hours at 20°C, as this temperature is optimal for most coatings. At this temperature, the chemical reactions responsible for curing the coating occur most efficiently.It provides sufficient time for the complete drying process without the coating curing too slowly, which can lead to a longer waiting time for further processing. Under these ideal conditions, the coating has the opportunity to fully adhere and optimally perform its protective function. This ensures a uniform and durable finish that is highly resistant to both daily wear and environmental influences. Although the stated drying time is suitable at 20°C, environmental conditions can influence the drying time. At higher temperatures or in well-ventilated rooms, the drying time may be shorter, while in cooler or more humid environments, the drying time may take longer. In such cases, additional measures, such as increasing the temperature or improving air circulation, can help to optimize the drying time. It is therefore important to always take into account the specific working conditions and the type of coating being used. 30 In a single application form, the coating is applied with an airless sprayer at a pressure between 1 bar and 1.5 bar.The use of an airless spray technique offers various advantages when applying coatings to wood, including an even, efficient, and controlled application. Airless spraying is a widely used technique in woodworking because it is able to apply coatings quickly and evenly to larger surfaces without excessive overspray, which optimizes the use of the coating and minimizes waste. BE2024 / 5856 12 The pressure between 1 bar and 1.5 bar is suitable for applying coatings to wood, because this pressure creates a fine mist of coating that is evenly distributed over the surface. This pressure setting makes it possible to apply a thin but consistent layer without applying too much paint or coating to the surface at once, which could lead to uneven coverage or drips. The use of an airless sprayer at this pressure ensures that the coating adheres well and cures quickly, which is essential for achieving long-lasting protection of the wood. The choice of a pressure from 1 bar to 1.It also offers advantages with regard to application control. At this pressure, the operator can easily move the spray gun over the surface, while the coating is deposited at the correct speeds and in the desired quantity. It is possible to treat hard-to-reach corners or edges of the wood with this technique, making the process more efficient, especially with complex shapes or sizes of wooden panels. Moreover, at such pressure, the risk of air bubbles or irregularities forming in the coating layer is minimized. In addition to the pressure, the choice of the nozzle is also important. The size of the nozzle must be carefully selected based on the viscosity of the coatings and the type of wood being treated. A suitable nozzle ensures that the coating is spread at the correct speed and adheres well to the surface, without problems such as blockages or irregular deposition occurring.The use of an airless sprayer also requires some experience to find the right techniques and speed for applying the coating, which contributes to an efficient and high-quality final result. The airless spray technique is particularly suitable for industrial and commercial applications where speed, efficiency, and quality are of great importance. This technique reduces the labor intensity of the coating process and ensures that large surfaces are treated quickly and with a uniform layer. In combination with the correct drying times and the use of a coating free of harmful substances such as formaldehyde, airless spraying can contribute to an efficient and durable finish of the wood. In one application, the coating is applied with a spray head with a spray tip angle between 20° and 40°. The spray tip angle is an important aspect when using airless spray techniques, because it influences the width and degree of spread of the coating. BE2024 / 5856 13By choosing the correct tip angle, the operator can achieve a controlled and efficient application that ensures an even and high-quality surface finish. A spray tip angle between 20° and 40° offers flexibility and precision during the spraying process. At a tip angle of 20° to 30°, a narrow, concentrated spray is created, which is suitable for treating detailed or hard-to-reach areas, such as corners, edges, or smaller surfaces. This smaller spray makes it possible to work with high precision, achieving uniform coverage over specific parts of the wooden surface without the coating spreading too much. On the other hand, a spray tip angle of 30° to 40° provides a wider spray, which is suitable for applying coatings to larger surfaces. This wider spray makes application more efficient and faster, because the coating can be applied over a wider area in one go.With a wider spreading angle, the risk of drips or an irregular coating is reduced, especially if the correct pressure and distance to the surface are maintained. The choice of tip angle also influences the amount of coating applied in a given area. A narrower angle results in a thinner layer applied with more control, while a wider angle spreads more coating in a shorter time, which speeds up the process and increases productivity. The spray nozzle must be carefully selected based on the type of coating, its viscosity, and the type of wood being treated. This ensures that the coating adheres evenly, without applying too much at once, which can lead to overspray or drips. The choice of a spray nozzle with a tip angle between 20° and 40° contributes to an optimal application of the coating, especially when a consistent and precise finish is required. For applying a coating to wood, the spray nozzle can be adjusted to meet the specific requirements of the treatment.When treating finer wood surfaces or surfaces with complex geometries, a smaller tip angle may be preferred. For large surfaces or where speed is important, a larger tip angle may be more suitable. 35 In combination with the correct pressure settings spray technique, the spray tip angle between 20° and 40° enables the operator to achieve an effective and high-quality finish. This makes the application of the coating efficient and ensures that the coating BE2024 / 5856 14 adheres well, provides even coverage, and protects the wood for a long time against external influences such as moisture, UV rays, and mechanical wear. After the application of a primary coating, a final finishing layer can be applied to further improve the durability and aesthetics of the wood. This final layer serves not only for protection but can also refine the appearance of the wood, increase resistance to environmental influences, and enhance the finish with a desired gloss or matte look.The final finishing layer is an essential part of the treatment process, because it provides the final layer of protection against external factors such as moisture, dirt, UV radiation, and wear. Depending on the intended applications and the type of wood, the finishing layer can contain a number of different formulas, ranging from oil- and resin-based coatings to water-based finishes. These layers can be transparent to preserve the natural beauty of the wood, or they can be colored to improve the appearance of the wood and protect it against discoloration caused by UV rays. The choice of the type of finishing layer depends on the specific requirements of the project, such as the desired look, exposure to weather conditions, and the degree of wear to which the wood will be exposed. 20 The final finishing layer not only offers protection against the elements, but can also reduce the maintenance frequency of the wood. Coatings with a high degree of water resistance ensure that the wood comes into contact with moisture less quickly, which minimizes the risk of mold or rot formation.In addition, some finishing layers can also have an antimicrobial effect, which is particularly useful in environments where hygiene is important, such as in the construction of wooden kitchens or furniture. Furthermore, finishing layers can increase the wear resistance of the wood, making it less prone to scratching and denting, which is essential for surface preservation, especially in commercial or industrial applications. 30 Finishing layers can offer different finishes, from a matte to a glossy appearance, depending on aesthetic preferences and the intended use of the treated wood. A matte finish tends to give the wood a more natural look, while preserving the textures and character of the wood, whereas a glossy finish lends the wood a more luxurious, more polished appearance. This choice influences the visual impact of the end product and can also offer practical benefits, such as facilitating maintenance by making dirt and stains less visible on glossy surfaces.In addition to the visual effects, the finishing layer can also contribute to the resilience of the wood. For instance, certain finishing layers can offer protection against scratches, stains, and other forms of damage, making the surface more resistant to daily use. This is especially important for wooden furniture, flooring, and other products that frequently come into contact with rough or abrasive materials. In some cases, the finishing layer can even help improve the comfort of the wood, for example by creating a smoother surface that feels pleasant or is easier to clean. In a specific application form, the finishing layer has a viscosity between 10 seconds and 50 seconds, preferably between 20 seconds and 40 seconds, and even more preferably between 25 seconds and 35 seconds at 20°C, measured according to the DIN 4 mm / 20°C method. Viscosity is a parameter when applying coatings, because it determines the flow properties of the finishing layer and influences how the coating behaves during application and drying.A viscosity between 10 and 50 seconds offers a wide range of possibilities for formulating coatings suitable for various applications. Coatings with a viscosity at the lower end of this spectrum (i.e., closer to 10 seconds) will be thinner and flow more easily over the surface of the wood, resulting in faster application and a thin, even layer. This viscosity can be beneficial for applications where fast coverage is required or for treating finer surfaces that do not require a thick layer. On the other hand, coatings with a viscosity closer to 50 seconds will be thicker and flow less quickly. This can be useful when a thicker protective layer is needed, for example for exterior surfaces that must withstand severe weather conditions. A higher viscosity makes it possible to keep the coating on the surface longer without it dripping off quickly, which can be essential for achieving a uniform and durable finish.Thicker coatings generally offer a higher degree of protection against wear and environmental influences, but often require more careful application to ensure even distribution.35 BE2024 / 5856 16 A preferred viscosity between 20 seconds and 40 seconds is suitable for most standard applications. At this viscosity, the finishing layer offers a good balance between flow properties and protection. It enables the operator to apply the coating in a controlled manner without it flowing too fast or being too slow to be spread evenly. This viscosity range ensures that the finishing layer adheres well to the wood, provides even coverage, and protects the surface well against influences such as moisture and dirt. A viscosity between 25 and 35 seconds offers the most flexibility for applying a finishing layer that is neither too thin nor too thick. This viscosity makes it possible to apply the finishing layer to a wide range of wood types, from softer woods such as pine to harder woods such as oak.Moreover, this viscosity contributes to the required processing time: the coating remains workable for a sufficiently long time, so that the operator has time to distribute the layer properly and achieve a consistent result.15 The viscosity is measured according to the DIN 4 mm / 20°C method, which entails that a viscometer is used to measure the time the coating needs to flow through a standard 4 mm opening in a container at a temperature of 20°C. This method is standardized and offers an accurate and reproducible way to determine the flow properties of the finishing layer. The result of this test provides insight into how the coating will behave during application and drying, which is essential for obtaining the desired finish. 25 In a further form of execution, the finishing layer has a drying time between 3 and 20 hours, preferably between 5 and 15 hours, and even more preferably between 6 and 12 hours. The drying time is a factor that influences the processing time, the efficiency of the production process and the final quality of the finish.It determines how quickly the coating cures and is ready for further processing or for exposure to environmental factors such as humidity, temperature, and light. A drying time between 3 and 20 hours offers a wide range of possibilities for different applications and conditions. In some cases, for example on faster production lines or in environments where fast turnaround times are required, a shorter drying time of 3 to 5 hours may be desirable. Fast-drying coatings ensure that the treated surface is ready for further processing sooner, such as applying a subsequent layer or packaging and transporting the product. This can be time-saving, especially in industrial environments where speed and efficiency are crucial. On the other hand, a drying time between 5 and 15 hours can be useful for applications where the finishing layer requires sufficient time to stabilize and achieve durable, strong adhesion.Coatings that dry within this timeframe offer the possibility of achieving a high-quality finish without the layer hardening too quickly, which could lead to cracks, uneven distribution, or other defects. This drying time range ensures a balance between speed and the degree of control required for an optimal finish.10 The preferred drying time between 6 and 12 hours offers an ideal balance for most wood applications. During this time interval, the coating has the opportunity to dry without hardening too quickly. This is important to ensure that the coating dries evenly, resulting in a uniform, defect-free15 finish that is highly resistant to wear, moisture, and other environmental factors. In many cases, a drying time of 6 to 12 hours also ensures that the finishing layer achieves sufficient stability, so that the treated wood can be used quickly, but without the coating being exposed too much to air or dust during the drying process.20 The drying time is also highly dependent on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity.At higher temperatures, the coating will dry faster, while lower temperatures can prolong the drying time. The thickness of the applied layer also plays an important role: a thicker layer requires more time to dry than a thin layer. Therefore, it may be necessary to adjust the drying time based on the specific conditions and desired results. In addition to the time required for drying, the curing of the coating after drying can also vary. After the initial drying time, it may take a few more hours before the coating is fully cured and offers full protection. This means that the wood may not immediately be fully resistant to scratches or damage after the drying period, although in many cases the coating is already sufficiently dry to offer functional protection. Curing can be influenced by factors such as the nature of the coating used, environmental conditions, and the presence of additives in the finishing layer. BE2024 / 5856 18 In what follows, the invention is described usingnon-limiting examples that illustrate the invention, and which are not intended or should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the invention. EXAMPLES5 EXAMPLE 1: Comparison of wood treatment methods: In an experiment, three different wood treatment methods were investigated, in which we refer to the method as the "experimented method" in the present application and compare it with two other common treatment methods: Method A and Method B. Emphasis was placed on the effectiveness of the treatments based on various important factors such as wood treatment techniques, the materials used and coating methods, drying times, and the overall suitability of the treated wood for industrial, commercial and private applications. Method A uses primarily mechanical methods for wood treatment, whereby only sanding with a standard abrasive is applied and subsequently a standard solvent-based coating is applied.Method B,20, on the other hand, combines air blasting with standard compressed air pressure and a general coating without specific emphasis on the finishing layer. 1. Air blasting and Sanding: The experimented method uses air blasting with a nozzle25 of 6 mm to 10 mm and a grit size between 0.1 mm and 1.0 mm, with a controlled pressure of 4-7 bar, depending on the type of wood (between 4-5 bar for pine and between 6-7 bar for spruce). Sanding is performed with zirconium oxide with a grit size of 100-120, which creates a fine, controlled surface roughness suitable for the application of coatings.30 In comparison, Method A uses only a sanding method with less control over the grit sizes and no air blasting, which results in a less effective preparation of the wood surface. Method B uses air blasting, but without specific control over the grit sizes and pressure, which leads to35 inconsistent results and less stable adhesion for the subsequent coating. 2.Coatings Application: BE2024 / 5856 19 The experimented method uses a formaldehyde-free coating that has a drying time of 4 hours at 20°C. This coating is applied with an airless sprayer at a pressure of 1 bar to 1.5 bar, with a spray tip angle of 20° to 40°, which ensures an even distribution and efficient application. 5 Method A uses standard coatings that often contain solvents, which can lead to higher harmful emissions and less environmentally friendly results. The drying time of the coating in Method A is often longer, which can lead to longer production times and lower efficiency. In Method B, a coating is applied that sometimes has a fast drying time, but the use of less advanced application techniques results in less consistent results. 3. Finishing layer: In the experimented method, a finishing layer is applied with a viscosity between 25s and 35s (DIN4mm / 20°C), which ensures an ideal consistency15 for achieving a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.The drying time of the finishing layer is between 6 and 12 hours, ensuring proper curing and robust, long-lasting protection of the wood. Method A has a finishing layer that often requires thicker layers and a longer drying time, which can lead to an uneven finish. With Method B, the finishing layer is often applied too thinly, reducing durability and resistance to wear and environmental factors. 4. Wood Species Suitability for Applications: 25 In the experimental method, cross-laminated timber (CLT) is treated, where the wood originates from pine or spruce, and even the wood may contain resin galls up to 6mm x 80mm. After treatment, the wood is suitable for industrial, commercial, and residential applications, with excellent mechanical properties and a long service life. 30 In contrast to the experimental method, Method A offers no specific methods for treating CLT. It is less suitable for wood with significant amounts of resin galls, which could affect structural integrity.Method B can also be applied to CLT, but offers no guarantees regarding the wood species is possibly less suitable for commercial use. BE2024 / 5856 20 5. Conclusions: The experimental method offers significant advantages over Method A and Method B. The controlled and optimized treatment of the wood with air blasting and sanding, combined with a formaldehyde-free coating, guarantees not only a higher aesthetic value, but also better mechanical properties and a longer service life of the treated wood. Careful control of the drying process and the finishing layer ensures uniform and durable protection. Moreover, the experimental method is more versatile, as it is suitable for a wide range of applications, from industrial to private markets, and for various wood species, including CLT. These characteristics make the method particularly attractive for the modern woodworking industry, with advantages in terms of productivity, durability and aesthetics. BE2024 / 5856.