The Gravimetric Method is a widely adopted technique for accurately determining the moisture content of wood samples. This method is highly reliable due to its simplicity and straightforward approach.

To perform this analysis, the target wood sample undergoes a series of standardized procedures:

• Sampling: A representative sample that accurately reflects the wood’s moisture level is collected.
• Weighing: The initial weight of the sample is precisely measured to serve as the “wet weight.”
• Drying: The sample is placed in an oven at a specified temperature, typically between 103°C (217°F) and 105°C (221°F), until it reaches a constant, dry weight.
• Weighing: Once dry, the sample is carefully weighed again, resulting in the “dry weight.”

The moisture content of the wood sample is calculated using the formula:

Moisture Content (%) = [(Wet Weight – Dry Weight) / Dry Weight] x 100

The results obtained from the Gravimetric Method provide valuable insights into the wood’s moisture level, which is crucial information for various applications, including wood preservation, construction, and manufacturing.