Toasted TM Ash
Fraxinus species, including Fraxinus americana
Other names prior to Thermal Modification: northern ash, southern ash
Other names post Thermal Modification: Cambia ash, thermally modified ash, torrified ash, roasted ash.
Distribution and Availability
Distributed throughout Eastern USA. Good availability as lumber and veneer. The lumber is often classified according to growing regions and marketed as Northern ash and Southern ash. It is sometimes separated for colour and sold as white ash (sapwood) or brown ash (heartwood). American ash can comprise a number of commercial sub species and is available in a wide range of grades and specifications as lumber and veneer.
General Description
Thermal Modification results in rich brown hues varying from amber brown to a dark brown, while highlighting the grain. End results can be comparable to colouring of exotic wood while ensuring the use of domestic North American Species.
Physical & Mechanical Properties
Unlike other manufacturing processes that combine numerous constituent components to create a new product, thermal modification uses only heat to change the physical and chemical nature of wood. Much of the energy required to do the modification also comes directly from the wood. At high heat, combustible organic compounds from the wood become a fuel source.
Working Properties
Toasted TM Ash is resistant to cupping, twisting and warping. Toasted TM Ash will weather when used in outdoor applications and being subject to the elements and UV rays. To protect its colour it is recommended to use oil or stain with a UV protectant when finishing.
Durability
Being subjected to high temperatures during the thermo-treatment process neutralizes the wood by destroying all of the micro-organisms present and prevents the infestation by insects or other pests. The thermal Modification treatment process strengthens the molecular structure of the wood which gives it greater dimensional stability. Thermal modified lumber develops a greater resistance to warping, swelling or shrinking regardless of variations in temperature and humidity.
Main Uses
For interiors, Toasted TM Ash’s beauty is favoured for flooring, cabinetry, moulding, components, and furniture and interior panelling.
For exteriors, Toasted TM Ash is suited to fencing, decking, garden furniture, patios and external cladding.
Other Information
Note that white ash is the commercial name for Fraxinus americana.
