Cool comfort, Zero Harm: Next-Generation Refrigerants for a Healthier Planet

By RISC | 2 weeks ago

Did you know that the new generation of HFO refrigerants is even more eco-friendly?We often overlook how much our everyday appliances, air conditioners and refrigerators can impact the ozone layer. The key lies in refrigerants. If the wrong ones are used, they can significantly damage the ozone layer and accelerate global warming.In the past, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were widely used for their excellent cooling efficiency, non-flammability, and low toxicity. But CFCs are extremely stable and persist in the atmosphere for decades. When exposed to UV radiation, they release chlorine radicals that destroy ozone molecules, leading to ozone depletion and global warming.As the damage became undeniable, the world phased out CFCs in favor of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which were less harmful but still contributed to global warming. Countries, including Thailand, have since moved to discontinue them.Today, newer alternatives have emerged:• Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs): Ozone-safe (ODP = 0) but with very high global warming potential (GWP = 1,000–10,000).• Hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs): Ozone-safe (ODP = 0) with an ultra-low GWP (1–10).When choosing air conditioners or refrigerators, always check that the refrigerant has an ODP of 0 and a low GWP. This helps protect the ozone layer and reduces climate impact.World Ozone Day, 16 September reminds us of the ozone layer’s crucial role as Earth’s protective shield. It absorbs harmful ultraviolet rays—especially UVB and UVC—that can cause skin cancer, cataracts, crop damage, ecosystem disruption, and rising global temperatures if left unchecked.At The Forestias, we are taking real action. Our cooling systems use HFO R1234ze, one of the world’s most eco-friendly refrigerants, with an ODP of 0 and a GWP of less than 1. This transition cuts carbon emissions by up to 43,869 tCO₂e annually compared with traditional HFCs.It’s a major step toward building a community that is environmentally responsible—and safe for generations to come.Content by: Supunnapang Raksawong, Sustainable Building Material Researcher

A Solution for Thermosetting Plastic Waste?

By RISC | 3 months ago

The environmental challenge of plastic waste involves not only conventional recycling but complex plastics that are far harder to manage.Water bottles, food containers, plastic packaging, and plastic bags are typically made of thermoplastics. These items can therefore be melted and reshaped when heated. But another category of plastic is an increasing environmental concern—thermosetting plastics.Thermosets are known for their strength and chemical resistance. Once cured by heat, they cannot be melted or reshaped. Instead, they harden permanently and will burn rather than soften. These properties make them ideal for heavy-duty applications such as car tires, polyurethane foams used in sofas and car seats, shoe soles, adhesives, epoxy coatings, or melamine dishware. Their durability, however, also makes thermosets extremely difficult to recycle. Most thermoset waste ends up in landfills or incinerators, contributing to long-term environmental damage.So how can we deal with thermosetting plastics?Vitrimerization turns thermosetting plastics into plastics with dynamic structures. These structures allow them to break and reform bonds through a chemical reaction known as transesterification under specific conditions. Plastics that undergo vitrimerization gain a combination of thermoplastic and thermoset properties. They can be melted and reshaped, while still retaining mechanical strength and resistance to heat, sunlight, and chemicals. These materials also possess self-healing capabilities because their bonds can break and reform under appropriate heating, allowing them to be reshaped, repaired, or reused multiple times (typically 3–5 times) without loss of performance. This makes vitrimerization a promising method to address the issue of thermoset plastic waste.Recycling athletic shoe soles or running shoes made from crosslinked ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam is a notable example. This type of foam is highly flexible, impact-resistant, durable, and non-compressible. Research shows that EVA thermosets can be converted into EVA vitrimer by grinding EVA scraps into micron-sized particles (<200 µm) and mixing them with catalysts such as zinc acetate (Zn acetate) and materials with hydroxyl groups (-OH), like polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH). When this mixture is hot-pressed, a transesterification reaction occurs, transforming some of the crosslinks into dynamic bonds. Upon further molding, the plastic can be reshaped without adding more chemicals and retains its original properties. Unlike mechanical recycling, which typically degrades material quality, vitrimerized EVA maintains its mechanical integrity. The dynamic bonds can break and reform under heat, making it possible to recycle previously unrecyclable thermoset plastics into high-quality, high-value products.But vitrimerization still faces challenges. One significant hurdle is reducing thermoset plastic waste into micron-sized particles, especially with rubber materials that are tough and elastic. At room temperature, this grinding is difficult. Therefore, the rubber must be turned into a glass-like state—hard and brittle—making it easier to break down. This process requires extremely low temperatures, increasing production costs.Advancing this technology could pave the way for recycling more complex waste streams, such as electronic circuit boards, wind turbine blades, automotive and aerospace components, or insulation materials in solar panels. This would significantly reduce industrial and hazardous waste and promote sustainable end-of-life management for these products.Content by: Supunnapang Raksawong, Sustainable Building Material ResearcherReferences:Amin Jamei Oskouei et al. (2024). Vitrimerization of crosslinked poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate): the effect of catalysts. RSC Appl. Polym., 2024, 2, 905.Alireza Bandegi et al. (2023). Vitrimerization of crosslinked elastomers: a mechanochemical approach for recycling thermoset polymers. Mater. Adv., 2023, 4, 2648–2658.

Interlacing Intertwining Coalescing through Contemporary Art for Biodiversity

By RISC | 3 months ago

RISC is thrilled to exhibit its textile creations in “Interlacing Intertwining Coalescing through Contemporary Art for Biodiversity” at the Isan Creative Festival 2025.This exhibition showcases artworks made with fibers upcycled from plastic waste. The project aims to raise environmental awareness and inspire conservation. Each piece features endangered or protected Thai animals with traditional regional patterns. This creative fusion blends heritage and local identity with contemporary artistic expression. ISAN CREATIVE FESTIVAL 202528 June – 6 July 2025, TCDC Khon Kaen, 2nd FloorFind out more: https://www.isancreativefestival.com/isancf2025Line: @isancfFacebook: isancreativefestivalInstagram: @isancreativefestival

Durian’s Surprising Potential in Construction and Plastics

By RISC | 3 months ago

Each 1 kg of durian contains about 0.6 kg of husk… but this needn’t go to waste!Durian takes center stage as the “King of Fruits’ as we approach mid-year and it also makes a crucial contribution to the Thai economy. Exports totaled an amazing 164.8 billion baht in 2023, according to the Department of Internal Trade. Domestic consumption averages 400,000 tons a year. But this appeal creates a problem—the discarded husks. Each year these total 240,200 tons. Unless properly managed, this waste can cause long-term sanitation and environmental issues.Durian husks tend to go to landfill and incineration. But both methods have environmental impacts. Landfilling releases methane as the husks rot. Incineration releases harmful pollutants. Finding ways to use the husk could offer many benefits.Innovative Ways to Use Durian Husk:Durian husk can be fermented with yeast to feed animals. The fermented husk has increased protein and a fragrant scent like pickled fruit. With a firm texture and no harmful substances from fermentation, the feed is safe for ruminants and supports their growth and health.The fibers in durian husk can also be turned into thermal insulation. Hemicellulose and lignin are extracted then mixed with adhesives like natural latex to form sheets. The resulting insulation has a low thermal conductivity coefficient. But while effective for heat insulation, the material has limitations from its water absorption and flammability. The husk can also be used in PLA/PBS/durian fiber foam for use in bedding for laboratory animals. Durian fibers enhance the foam's ability to absorb ammonia solutions or animal secretions and increase its strength.Durian husk can be processed into a biodegradable bioplastic called carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). The husk has a primary cellulose content of 54%, more than bagasse (41%), rice straw (38%), and coconut coir (36%). Extracting cellulose from durian husk to produce CMC is therefore highly feasible.Making CMC from durian fibers has 3 steps:- Preparing cellulose from durian husk fibers: This step involves removing hemicellulose and lignin using concentrated alkaline solutions such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and bleaching to remove color.- Alkalization: This involves soaking the cellulose in a concentrated alkaline solution with a water-insoluble organic solvent, such as NaOH/isopropyl alcohol, to allow the alkaline solution to penetrate the fibers.- Etherification: This involves adding monochloroacetic acid (MCA) to react with the cellulose, yielding sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (Na-CMC) and sodium chloride (NaCl) as a byproduct.CMC from durian husk fibers is like commercial CMC and can decompose within 60 hours without harming the environment. It’s suitable for biodegradable packaging and can coat fruit to slow spoilage.Turning durian husk into useful materials not only reduces waste but also adds value to agricultural waste. The process creates high-quality, high-value products, especially as a precursor for CMC production. The diverse applications include as a thickener and stabilizer in the food, cosmetic, and agricultural industries. The material can also be used in biofilms and biodegradable packaging, reducing reliance on petroleum-based materials. While benefiting the environment the process opens new economic opportunities for farmers and industries, aligning with sustainable development goals.Content by: Supunnapang Raksawong, Sustainable Building Material ResearcherReferences:Department of Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce. Durian Production Statistics: https://regional.moc.go.th/th/file/get/file/202407013a6133c1bd218dfc40828623c88c6fea161400.pdfSaarena Sue-mae. 2021. Development and Value Addition of Durian Rind Waste as a High-Quality Animal Feed Source for Southern Border Provinces. National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT).Panjai Sueprasertsit et al. 2020. Technical Feasibility for the Production of Thermal Insulation Boards from Durian Rind. Vol 39. No 6, November-December 2020.Kornkamon Jittareethat. 2023. Development and Evaluation of PLA/PBS/Durian Fiber Foam for Application as Bedding Material for Laboratory Animals. Master of Science Thesis (Material Innovation and Technology), Thammasat University.Ruengdechawiwat, S., Sanawong, P., & Boonmee, S. (2024). Application of carboxymethyl cellulose from durian rind for maintaining the quality of mango fruits (MANGIFERA INDICA LINN.) CV. NAMDOKMAI SRI TONG. Life Sciences and Environment Journal, 25(1), 166–17

Waste to "VALUE": Transforming Waste into Worth

By RISC | 4 months ago

Thailand generated 19.8 million tons of industrial waste in 2023, 18.7 million non-hazardous and 1.1 million hazardous, according to the Department of Industrial Works.Most industrial waste comes from sugar production (38.8%), thermal power generation (14.3%), food and beverages (11.9%), steel (6.4%), ethanol (5.7%), along with other industries such as paper, automotive parts, chemicals, plastics, and textiles.Large volumes of waste are typically generated during industrial production—and the amount is increasing each year. Without proper management, such waste can have severe environmental impacts, including hazardous chemical contamination, microplastics in soil and water, and the spread of harmful pathogens.The Circular Economy focuses on reusing waste to reduce overall volume and sustainably transform it into valuable resources.This process starts with product design that minimizes resource use and reduces waste during production. It also includes considerations for end-of-life product management, such as using biodegradable, recyclable, or reusable materials. Importantly, by-products from manufacturing should not be treated as mere waste, but as valuable resources—offering opportunities to create added value, such as using them as raw materials for new products. This maximizes resource efficiency.One example is the production of carpet tiles from nylon fibers by Tarkett.Tarkett’s carpet tiles are designed to be disassembled: The carpet pile, made of nylon fibers, can be chemically recycled along with other production scraps and nylon waste (e.g., fishing nets, mesh, garments, and plastic parts) into new nylon fiber for producing new carpets. The backing layer, once separated, is shredded and reformed into new backing material for future carpet tiles. This thoughtful design and material selection significantly reduces waste, lowers environmental impact, adds value, and cuts disposal costs.Turning waste into new products through circular design not only reduces waste and environmental impact but also adds value—through materials engineered for recycling and efficient resource use at every step. The outcome is not only lower disposal costs, but also new business opportunities to develop sustainable products.If your organization or industry is looking to turn factory waste into value and build a sustainable circular economy, contact:RISC Line ID: risc_centerTel: 063-902-9346Email: risc_admin@dtgo.comStory by: Supunnapang Raksawong, Materials Researcher in Sustainable Building Material, RISCReferences:National Statistical Office. Thailand Environmental Statistics 2024: https://www.nso.go.th/public/e-book/Indicators-Environment/Environment-Indicators-2567/Department of Industrial Works. Industrial Waste Summary 2023: https://api.diw.go.th/public/tableauPublic.jsp?name=A4&ms=1744165687192Tarkett. Climate and Circular Economy

How Biomass Ash Can Make Construction Greener

By RISC | 6 months ago

Did you know that each megawatt of electricity from biomass also generates 200-400 tons of ash?What is biomass ash and why does it matter?Biomass ash is waste from generating electricity with biomass. Different types of biomass produce varying amounts of ash, typically in the range 1-3%. The more electricity, the more ash.Thailand has 226 biomass power plants totaling 2,110 MW. These plants produce nearly 1 million tons of biomass ash each year. So how do we manage such an enormous amount of ash?Proper management of biomass ashBiomass ash is industrial waste and must be disposed of according to environmental regulations. Common disposal methods include sending it to landfill, using it in cement kilns, composting it for fertilizers and soil conditioners, and recycling it for other usesBut the large volume of biomass ash means high disposal costs. Managing 80,000–100,000 tons can cost 10-15 million baht. To reduce disposal costs and boost the value of biomass ash, research has explored uses in construction materials.Can biomass ash be used in cement?Cement is a key material in concrete production. In a hydration reaction it forms calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) that strengthens concrete. Replacing cement with biomass ash significantly affects the properties of concrete.Biomass ash mainly consists of calcium oxide (CaO) but has lower amounts of silica (SiO₂), alumina (Al₂O₃), and iron oxide (Fe₂O₃), resulting in reduced hydration reactions. But SiO₂, Al₂O₃, and Fe₂O₃ can still undergo a pozzolanic reaction with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂), forming C-S-H. This reaction enhances the long-term compressive strength, sulfate resistance, and acid resistance of concrete while reducing efflorescence on concrete surfaces.Excessive biomass ash content, however, reduces concrete compressive strength. Biomass ash has smaller particles and is lighter than cement, making the resulting concrete lighter. Its high porosity and surface area also lead to greater water absorption, requiring an increase in water content during the mixing process.Appropriate uses and proportions of biomass ash in constructionThe properties of biomass ash significantly impact concrete performance, depending on its type, chemical composition, and quantity. Using biomass ash is most suitable for non-load-bearing applications, such as curbstones, pavement materials, garden decorations, and ventilation blocksThe recommended replacement ratio for cement is 10-30% by weight, but this depends on the type and quality of biomass ash, concrete composition, and mix proportions.Adding value to biomass ash productsTo compete in the market, biomass ash-based products should have unique features, whether in design, aesthetics, or special functions. This approach not only enhances product competitiveness but also contributes to a sustainable circular economy.Story by: Supunnapang Raksawong, Materials Researcher in Sustainable Building Material, RISCReferencesDepartment of Alternative Energy Development and Efficiency, Ministry of Energy (2025). Biomass Power Plant Location Map in Thailand.Kwancheewa Yongstar, Nuanan Kurakaew, Chukiat Chusakul, and Sunan Monkaew (2024). Development of Interlocking Bricks from Waste Rock Dust and Rubberwood Ash. RMUTP Journal of Science and Technology, Vol. 18, No. 1 (2024).Saroj Damrongsil (2007). Effects of Sugarcane Bagasse and Fly Ash Blended Cement on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Concrete. KMUTT Journal of Research and Technology, Vol. 30, No. 3, July-September (2007).Ayobami A. B. (2021). Performance of Wood Bottom Ash in Cement-Based Applications and Comparison with Other Selected Ashes: Overview. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, Vol. 166, 105351.

How Photocatalytic Coating Turns Buildings into Air Purifiers

By RISC | 6 months ago

PM2.5 never seems to really go away… So what can we do?Fine particulates with a diameter of 2.5 microns or less—30 times smaller than the width of a human hair—can enter our bodies through our respiratory system and even reach our bloodstream. Exposure to PM2.5 can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation. Breathing can become difficult and we might feel chest pain. Long-term exposure may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).Outdoor air pollution and PM2.5 are classed in Group 1 (Carcinogenic to Humans) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). There is enough evidence to confirm their role as carcinogens. PM2.5 causes lung cancer, according to research.We can protect ourselves from PM2.5 with N95 masks or air purifiers with HEPA filters (H10–H14), able to trap particles as small as 0.3 microns with an efficiency of 85%–99.995%. But did you know that some building materials reduce dust? Photocatalytic coating is a surface treatment that can reduce pollution. This coating often contains titanium dioxide (TiO2). When it’s exposed to sunlight, a chemical reaction on the surface generates hydroxyl radicals (OH·) and superoxide anion radicals (O2-·). These radicals break down air pollutants including dust, gases, bacteria, viruses, and mold. The pollutants form carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O), making them harmless to health. Research has shown that titanium dioxide can decompose up to 92% of the carbon content in PM2.5 while releasing carbon dioxide, effectively reducing the harmful impact of PM2.5.Photocatalyst coatings are already widely applied to construction materials such as glass, roofing materials, and wall paint. These coatings help surfaces clean themselves by preventing the accumulation of dust and pollutants. They also inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold. And they help cool buildings, ultimately reducing energy consumption.Story by: Supunnapang Raksawong, Materials Researcher in Sustainable Building Material, RISCReferences:IARC Monographs. Outdoor Air Quality Volume 109Dr. Piboon Jinawat. "Photocatalyst Building Materials." National Academic Conference, Architectural Paradigm, 2015Misawa K, Sekine Y, Kusukubo Y, Sohara K. Photocatalytic degradation of atmospheric fine particulate matter (PM2.5) collected on TiO2 supporting quartz fiber filter. Environ Technol. 2020 Apr;41(10):1266-1274.

Give Old Carpets a New Life: Creative Reuse Ideas

By RISC | 9 months ago

Carpets are popular decorative elements in homes and offices. Their patterns, colors, and textures offer several benefits, reducing noise and the risk of falls while protecting floor surfaces. Some carpets even improve air quality by trapping dust and microorganisms.But carpets deteriorate over time, losing their color and texture while accumulating dirt and dust. We eventually need to replace them. And then they become a challenging waste item.Why Are Carpets Hard to Recycle?Carpets are complex products made from multiple materials. The pile layer (top surface) is typically composed of natural or synthetic fibers and is attached to its backing by styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), a thermoset plastic. This construction makes separating the components for recycling particularly difficult. Most discarded carpets therefore end up in landfills or are incinerated, which poses significant environmental risks.The plastics used in carpets can take hundreds of years to decompose, releasing microplastics, heavy metals, dyes, and persistent chemicals like perfluorinated compounds (PFOS, PFOA) into soil and water sources. These substances are resistant to environmental breakdown, bioaccumulate in food chains, and pose serious health risks. For example, consuming fish exposed to contaminated waters may result in these harmful chemicals entering our bodies.Sustainable Solutions for Carpet WasteThe most effective way to manage carpet waste is through reuse, which minimizes resource consumption and avoids complex processes. When carpets are too damaged to be reused, recycling becomes a viable option. This can be done through:- Mechanical Recycling: Shredding and reprocessing carpets into new products, such as soundproofing panels or flooring sheets. However, these products often have lower quality than the original.- Chemical Recycling: Breaking down carpet fibers through processes like depolymerization to produce materials comparable to virgin fibers or pyrolysis to obtain raw materials for chemical production or fuel.While chemical recycling yields higher-value products, it is most effective for carpets made from single fiber types that can be easily separated.Currently, commercial recycling efforts are limited to specific fibers, such as Nylon 6 or polypropylene (PP), due to challenges in collection, economic feasibility, and repurposing recycled plastics. Manufacturers can improve recycling efficiency by designing carpets with fewer components and easily separable materials.Moving Toward a Sustainable FutureEffective carpet waste management is key to conserving resources, reducing environmental impacts, and fostering sustainability. By rethinking carpet design and promoting advanced recycling technologies, we can pave the way toward a greener future.Story by: Supunnapang Raksawong, Materials Researcher in Sustainable Building Material, RISCReferences:Carpet Recycling UK https://carpetrecyclinguk.com/​Sotayo et al., 2015. Carpet recycling: A review of recycled carpets for structural composites. Environmental Technology & Innovation, 3, 97-107.

"Low-Carbon Materials": A Pathway to Net Zero

By RISC | 10 months ago

Could new materials unlock low-carbon construction?Property developers are increasingly interested in low-carbon materials as new design approaches and energy efficiency cannot achieve net-zero on their own.Construction is a major contributor to global carbon emissions. Buildings generate 28% of their emissions from energy used during operation (Operational Carbon) and 11% from materials and construction processes (Embodied Carbon).There is therefore a growing focus on low-carbon materials. The carbon reduction is assessed throughout the material's lifecycle, from raw material extraction, production, and transport to usage and disposal. Products evaluated with a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) can verify these lower emissions (read more at https://bit.ly/3S8zWkd).Evaluating the carbon emissions from building materials and construction processes across all phases has become a key strategy, alongside energy-efficient buildings and the use of renewable energy.Imagine if we had low-carbon materials that could be regrown or even absorb carbon… Which option will lead us to global net zero? Find out at "Timber Construction: The Future of Sustainable Building."16 December at the Clubhouse of Mulberry Grove The Forestias Villas. Register now at https://bit.ly/3O3NVs1 30 seats only! Early Bird: 3,900 THB (Regular price: 4,900 THB) until 6 December. Payment: V BEFORE ME CORPORATION COMPANY LIMITED  Bangkok Bank Account No. 133-5-47655-0 ----------------------------------------------Story by Saritorn Amornjaruchit, Assistant Vice President of RISCReferences:  World Green Building Council, 2019

How to Choose Wood to Prevent Mold?​

By RISC | 1 year ago

Want to use wood in your home but worried about mold? Here’s the solution…​​People who love wood can face disappointment, especially in wet weather such as the rainy season. Wood contains cellulose, starch, sugars, and lignin. These all can degrade into carbohydrates, the primary food for mold.​Mold needs moisture, a food source, and a suitable temperature. If we can adjust these variables, mold will vanish. But Thailand’s hot and humid atmosphere, particularly in the rainy season, makes it tough to control moisture. Other conditions for mold growth include oxygen, light, acidity, and the type of wood.​So how to stop mold? Let's find out…Surface mold is a type that hasn’t yet entered the wood. Mold filaments and spores have a variety of hues. They’re usually found on moist wood or in humid settings. You can eliminate them by washing the surface or sanding the wood, taking care not to spread the spores to other locations. Always wear protective gear such as masks, gloves, and goggles to avoid direct contact with mold. Breathing it in can trigger respiratory problems and allergies.​Stain-causing mold is inside the wood, either naturally or from production. It causes discoloration and shows in spots or wider areas. You can’t eliminate this type of mold, but it doesn't weaken the wood's structural integrity. ​​The last type of mold is wood-decaying mold that grows on the outside or inside the wood. This mold rots wood, causing it to crumble, collapse, and snap. The wood's structural strength may be impacted by bleaching and reduced density. ​ Figure 1 shows mold damage to flooring.​ Figure 2 show mold damage to a door.​ Figure 3 shows mold damage to a wardrobe.​ To avoid mold problems in your home, choose wood carefully and manage the environment: ​Moisture control is critical. Outdoor areas must have adequate drainage, no standing water, and wood mustn’t touch the earth. You must use long-lasting materials and wood designed for outdoors. This wood can better resist the sun, rain, and humidity. Before using it, the wood should also be treated to protect it from mold and termites. You also must regularly clean away dirt, algae, and mildew. ​Moisture control is equally crucial indoors. Make sure the environment isn’t damp. Regularly open windows and doors. Let in natural light. Use fans or dehumidifiers. Check for leaks in roofs, walls, doors, windows, pipes, air conditioners, refrigerators. And check for moisture rising from the ground. Regular cleaning is also vital to minimize dust and dirt. Always dry surfaces after cleaning. ​​Before buying wood, check its moisture level with detection tools or get certification from the manufacturer or supplier. ​Here's how you can pick wood that won’t become food for mold:​ Wood with adhesives or binders, such as plywood, laminated wood, MDF, or particleboard, must be used with care. These materials shouldn’t be exposed to direct sunlight, rain, or placed in damp places like restrooms because they promote mold growth.​ Mold can also grow on processed wood with a high moisture level. Wood that is processed or utilized in construction should have its moisture level managed. An ideal range is 10-12%. This level helps to balance the moisture in the wood with air temperature and relative humidity, lowering wood expansion and contraction while minimizing moisture absorption from the air. Acceptable moisture content varies with the local climate. (As relative humidity rises, the equilibrium moisture content rises, and as air temperature rises, the equilibrium moisture content falls.)​ Chart 1 shows the relationship between air humidity and the wood's equilibrium moisture content.​ Moisture control in wood, whether through air-drying or kiln-drying, varies with the intended use. Door core wood should have a moisture level of 8-12%. Flooring wood or general indoor-use wood should have a moisture content of 12-16%. Structural wood, such as Glulam, shouldn’t have a moisture content greater than 16%. Wood should also be treated before use, such as with chemical impregnation or anti-mold treatments. ​You can also choose wood alternatives. Synthetic wood alternatives, for example, have higher mold resistance, reduced water absorption, and lower moisture retention. ​But wood has many benefits. It’s popular because it’s low-carbon, renewable, beautiful, and has a natural feel. But don’t only focus on mold when choosing wood. Check the source to protect habitats and avoid deforestation, both of which are crucial for natural water sources.​Story by Saritorn Amornjaruchit, Assistant Vice President of RISC ​References:​TIS 497-2526, Standard for Kiln-Dried Wood Products​Forestry Research and Forest Product Management Division, Royal Forest Department. "Wood-Destroying Fungi," 2006.​ANSI A190.1-2022 Product Standard for Structural Glued Laminated Timber ​Maher Zakaria Ahmed Selim.  Evaluation of moisture content in wood fiber and recommendation of the best method for its determination, 2006. ​