Accsys Technologies now offers the North American species red alder as part of its line of modified-wood products. Like the original Accoya wood, Accoya Alder undergoes a proprietary modification process called acetylation that improves its durability, hardness, water absorption, and dimensional stability while retaining its natural strength and look.
Alder boasts a fine grain and a medium tone-a look popular for construction of interior doors, cabinetry, flooring, and moldings. By applying the patented acetylation technology, the wood may be used for exterior applications, including screens, outdoor furniture, windows, and exterior doors, while still maintaining the species' aesthetic qualities.
The acetylation technology alters the wood's reaction with water by permanently replacing the molecules that want to bond with water with more stable acetyl groups. Acetyl groups are naturally present in all wood species, which means that nothing toxic is added. The altered cell structure of the wood makes it an unrecognizable wood source for insects and prevents fungal decay.
The Accoya product line carries a 50-year above-ground and 25-year below-ground warranty against rot and decay. BD+C
