Moisture mapping is a critical technique employed in the woodworking industry to assess the moisture levels within wood materials. Understanding wood moisture content is crucial for maintaining the quality and longevity of wooden structures.
### Wood Moisture Content
Wood moisture content, expressed as a percentage, represents the ratio of water mass to the mass of oven-dry wood. The moisture content of wood can vary significantly depending on factors such as species, environmental conditions, and treatment processes.
It is possible for wood to contain more than 100% moisture content. This condition, known as fiber saturation point (FSP), occurs when all the accessible voids within the wood’s cell structure are filled with water. Beyond FSP, the wood’s strength and stability are compromised.