The amount of moisture embedded within wood is referred to as its moisture content. It is a crucial factor that affects the wood’s strength, stability, and durability. Moisture Mapping is a process that involves determining the variations in moisture content within wood or wood-based materials.
### Can Wood Contain Over 100% Moisture Content?
Yes, wood can contain over 100% moisture content. This occurs when the wood absorbs water or other liquids beyond its oven-dry weight. The moisture content is expressed as a percentage of the oven-dry weight of the wood. For example, if a piece of wood with an oven-dry weight of 100 grams absorbs 150 grams of water, its moisture content would be 150%.
**Tip:** Wood with a moisture content of over 100% is often referred to as “waterlogged” or “saturated.” It is important to avoid using wood with such a high moisture content, as it is more susceptible to rot and decay.