FTIR examination of preservative retention in beech wood (Fagus sylvatica L.)
A method of FTIR examination of preservative retention in beech wood structure was developed. Beech wood samples of different preservative content were prepared using low pressure preservation process in laboratory conditions. Then samples were homogenized in a laboratory mill and measurements were performed using FTIR spectrometer with attenuated total reflectance unit. Pure preservative was also measured and from its spectrum 1,555 cm−1 absorption band was chosen as the characteristic for preservative. 1,027 and 1,370 cm−1 were absorption bands characteristic for wood which were chosen as reference peaks. Values of two absorbance ratios, A1,555/A1,027 and A1,555/A1,370 were correlated with the preservative content in particular samples. Correlation coefficients were 0.8390 and 0.8313, respectively.
Univariate and Multivariate Analysis of Tannin-Impregnated Wood Species Using Vibrational Spectroscopy
Vibrational spectroscopy is one of the most powerful tools in polymer science. Three main techniques—Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), FT-Raman spectroscopy, and FT near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy—can also be applied to wood science. Here, these three techniques were used to investigate the chemical modification occurring in wood after impregnation with tannin–hexamine preservatives. These spectroscopic techniques have the capacity to detect the externally added tannin. FT-IR has very strong sensitivity to the aromatic peak at around 1610 cm−1 in the tannin-treated samples, whereas FT-Raman reflects the peak at around 1600 cm−1 for the externally added tannin. This high efficacy in distinguishing chemical features was demonstrated in univariate analysis and confirmed via cluster analysis. Conversely, the results of the NIR measurements show noticeable sensitivity for small differences. For this technique, multivariate analysis is required and with this chemometric tool, it is also possible to predict the concentration of tannin on the surface.
The contribution of charcoal production to rural livelihoods in a semi-arid area in Kenya
Forest incomes in the form of both timber and non-timber forest products are an important source of livelihood for many communities in Africa. A major forest resource is charcoal, which contributes to the livelihoods of millions across the region. While incomes from charcoal are used to meet a wide spectrum of needs within rural livelihoods, the role of charcoal production on livelihoods of small-scale producers is not well understood. Therefore, we provide an example on the importance of charcoal on livelihoods in an agropastoralist community in a semi-arid region in Kenya. Based on a household questionnaire targeting 150 charcoal and 150 non-charcoal makers, as well as focus group discussions, we assessed the determinants for participation in charcoal production and developed a household typology based on charcoal income dependence. We also determined the role of charcoal in income equalization and poverty reduction. Our study shows that charcoal contributes about 20% of the household income in the study area. Gender, land size and the number of food-scarce months are the key determinants of participation in charcoal production. Based on the poverty analysis, we conclude that even though charcoal income does not lift the producers out of poverty, it can mitigate the impacts of poverty by reducing the poverty gap and poverty severity. Based on our findings, we recommend a multipronged approach to address sustainable rural livelihoods including a more explicit acknowledgement of charcoal production as a source of rural income. We also recommend broadening of the local livelihood base and a more active management of the woodland to ensure the sustainability of the income.