Types of Engineered Wood and Their Uses

*Masuod Bayat*

## **Abstract**

Engineering wood, also known as composite wood or manufactured wood, is a versatile and sustainable material that has gained significant popularity in various engineering applications. Engineering wood is created by combining natural wood fibers or particles with adhesives and other additives to enhance its strength, durability, and dimensional stability. The resulting material exhibits improved properties compared to traditional solid wood, such as a higher strength-to-weight ratio, resistance to moisture and pests, and reduced warping or shrinking. One of the primary applications of engineering wood is in the construction industry. Another significant application of engineering wood is in the furniture industry. It can be molded into various shapes and sizes, allowing for intricate designs while maintaining structural integrity. Engineered wood products like plywood and medium-density fiberboard (MDF) are commonly used for manufacturing cabinets, tables, chairs, and other furniture pieces. Engineering wood also finds application in the automotive sector. The versatility of engineering wood extends beyond the construction, furniture, and automotive industries. In conclusion, engineering wood offers a wide range of applications across various industries due to its enhanced properties compared to solid wood. Its use in construction provides durable structural elements while reducing environmental impact.

**Keywords:** engineering wood, environment, engineering wood product, engineering wood types, engineering wood applications

### **1. Introduction**

Wood has been used by humans in various fields since ancient times, but in recent years, environmental problems have made governments and global health officials think of a solution to minimize ecological pollutants Above all, he thought about preserving the forests. Wood has living and dead cells, which has caused its properties to be strongly affected by factors such as time, humidity, heat, etc. Wood has relatively good properties against pressure, bending, and stretching. Also, wood has relatively good heat and sound insulation properties. Unlike steel and many other metals, wood is reversible. In addition, wood has a natural and impressive beauty that has caused it to be used in various industries, including furniture production, interior and exterior decoration of buildings, etc. [1].

Wood is one of the most important construction and industrial materials obtained from trees. Wood has unique physical, chemical, and mechanical properties that make it suitable for use in various industries, including construction, furniture production, paper production, etc. Wood is one of the most important natural resources used in various industries such as construction, furniture, and vehicles.

The decrease in the level of forests and natural resources is reaching more acute and worrying stages day by day; So that nowadays the efforts of all countries are toward the optimal use of wood raw material. Wood is one of the oldest building materials and has many advantages as a building material. Therefore, by using natural and recyclable wood products, environmental degradation can be controlled to some extent. Also, reducing energy consumption and costs is very important [2].

However, improper use of forests and neglecting issues related to environmental protection can lead to air pollution, biodiversity loss, environmental degradation, and climate change. To preserve the environment and sustainable use of wood, new approaches have been developed, such as planting sustainable forests, recycling wood, using engineered wood, and using alternative materials such as polymers and metals. Also, new technologies such as wooden buildings with minimal energy consumption and the production of recycled paper help to preserve the environment. The decrease in the level of forests and natural resources is reaching more acute and worrying stages day by day; So today the efforts of all countries have led to the optimal use of wood raw material [3]. However, due to improper harvesting of forests, environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, and climate change, wood use may harm the environment [4]. To preserve the environment and sustainable use of wood resources, new approaches such as planting sustainable forests, wood recycling, using engineered wood, and using substitute materials for natural wood such as polymers and metals have been developed [5].

The use of wood waste as raw materials in the production of products is very important, due to the reduction of harvesting from forests and the preservation of the environment. Also, by recycling wood waste, you can save natural resources and reduce production costs [6].

Engineered wood is wood that has been improved using chemical, physical, and mechanical processes. This type of wood can be used as a substitute for natural wood in many applications such as the construction industry, furniture industry, art industry, etc., by increasing its strength, hardness, dimensional stability, and other mechanical properties [7]. **Figure 1** shows the use of wood from ancient times to today.

Engineering wood, also known as composite wood or manufactured wood, has gained significant recognition and usage in various industries due to its versatility and

**Figure 1.** *The use of wood from the past to the present [8].*

#### *Types of Engineered Wood and Their Uses DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.112545*

enhanced properties compared to traditional solid wood. This engineered material is created by bonding together multiple layers of wood veneers or fibers with adhesives, resulting in a strong and stable composite product [9]. The development of engineering wood has revolutionized the construction, furniture, and interior design industries, offering an array of benefits and applications.

This introduction aims to provide an overview of engineering wood and explore its wide-ranging applications in different sectors. One of the primary advantages of engineering wood is its improved strength and stability compared to solid wood [10]. By combining different layers of wood, this composite material achieves enhanced structural integrity, making it suitable for demanding applications in construction. Additionally, engineering wood exhibits superior dimensional stability, reducing the risk of warping, twisting, or splitting that can occur with solid wood. Another significant advantage of engineering wood is its environmental sustainability. Many engineered wood products are manufactured using wood fibers sourced from sustainably managed forests, ensuring responsible and eco-friendly production [11].

Additionally, the utilization of engineered wood reduces the demand for solid wood, contributing to the conservation of natural resources. The versatility of engineering wood is evident in its wide range of applications. In the construction industry, it is commonly used for structural components such as beams, columns, and floor systems, where its strength, stability, and durability are key factors. Engineering wood can also be found in furniture manufacturing, enabling the creation of esthetically pleasing and long-lasting pieces. Its consistent quality and resistance to warping make it an ideal choice for cabinetry, tables, chairs, and other furniture items. Furthermore, engineering wood finds its place in interior design, where it is utilized for wall paneling, decorative elements, and various architectural features [12].

By understanding the characteristics and applications of engineering wood, professionals and enthusiasts can make informed decisions when selecting materials for their projects. This knowledge allows for the utilization of engineering wood's unique properties to achieve desired outcomes in terms of strength, durability, sustainability, and esthetics. In the following sections of this article, we will delve deeper into the different types of engineering wood, their specific applications, and the advantages they offer. By exploring these aspects, readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of engineering wood and its potential to transform various industries.
