Minister praises Pinus radiata research

Press, 25 July 1986, Page 25

Minister praises Pinus radiata research

By

OLIVER RIDDELL

in Wellington The work of the Forest Research Institute must continue as the quantity of Pinus radiata for disposal improves, says the Minister of Forests, Mr Wetere.

At a presentation of design awards for gluelaminated timber structures, held in Auckland recently, Mr Wetere said export receipts for radiata pine would rise from 7 per cent to 20 per cent of New Zealand’s total. Research had given New Zealand a lead over other southern hemisphere countries, which were also well aware of potential 0/ the

timber, he said. There had been some astonishing developments in pine research in New Zealand in recent years, said Mr Wetere. Work was under way to develop surface-hardening techniques for pine. Chemical treatments were being identified to make radiata pine more suitable for quality furniture production.

Wood and plastics composites could now be formed by impregnating chemicals under vacuum, which in turn could be heat-cured to become hard plastic within the wood cells, he said. This was opening up a whole new dimension for

domestic and export markets. The commercial applications for a successful surface-hardening method were endless. Timber used in gluelamination had to be dipped or sprayed with an anti-sap stain, said Mr Wetere. The institute had patented a new method of applying these chemicals through a a foam treatment.

In the past, dipping or spraying had led to wastage, variations in the solution and potential health hazards. The new method enabled an even rate of application, with no waste and no residual froth to cause a health danger.