Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) Talking Points

When biomass is used as fuel, the usable heat energy obtained is dependent on a property called heat of combustion. Heat of combustion is the amount of heat that results from the complete combustion of the material. Values are commonly expressed in British thermal units per oven dry pound (Btu/OD lb.) of material. Table 1 shows the heat of combustion values for southern yellow pine, mesquite, Chinese tallow and juniper. Table 2 lists the heat of combustion values for 22 hardwood species commonly found in Texas.

Table 1. Heat of combustion (Btu/OD lb.) of pine¹, mesquite², Chinese tallow³ and juniper⁴.

Table 2. Heat of combustion (Btu/OD lb.) of twenty-two hardwood species¹.

Pallets are a standard-sized platform box open on two or four ends on which goods may be stacked. The open ends allow the entry of the blades (forks) of a forklift so that the load can be raised and moved about easily.

Phytosanitation

For export, all new and used Non-Manufactured Wood Packing used in pallets, crates or boxes must be:

Phytosanitary measures reduce the risk of introduction and/or spread of quarantined pests. Data collected by TFS indicates phytosanitation (heat or fumigation) adds approximately $1 per pallet for treatment, though exporters currently don’t have plans to switch to plastic or steel based shipping products.

The biggest advantage of fumigation is that it can be done anywhere, even after a load is on a pallet. Fumigation should be performed by a licensed fumigator, which can be found at most port cities.

Energy or heat will kill insects when the temperature is increased above 130ºF. The efficiency of heat treatment is based on energy, humidity and air circulation.

Heat Sterilization of Hardwood Pallets and Pallet Materials

International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM15)

USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Plant Protection and Quarantine, Wood Packaging Materials

Heating Times for Round and Rectangular Cross Sections of Wood in Steam (FPL-GTR-130)

 Wood Technology and Utilization FAQs

Organizations

• National Hardwood Lumber Association
• Southern Forest Products Assn
• Hardwood Information Center
• American Wood Council
• Forest Products Society
• Society of Wood Science and Technology (SWST)
• International Association of Wood Anatomists
• USDA Forest Service Forest Products Laboratory

• Dry Kiln Operator’s Manual, AH-188
• Wood Handbook, FPL-GTR-190
• Directory of Forest Products Industries in Texas