Using lumber samples obtained from mills in the Starkville area, they use a kiln and conventional measuring equipment to obtain data. The scientists have noted a significant difference, however, in emissions from the type of pine lumber being dried. Factors such as the number of knots and the amount of heartwood in lumber influence the amount created by the drying process. The increase is not large unless the lumber being dried contains an unusual number of knots or extraordinary amounts of resin or heartwood, he observed. So far, MSU research indicates that overall levels of emissions are not high enough to have an adverse impact on the atmosphere.
Work continues to determine and measure the factors responsible for the varying emission levels.
The results are good news for Mississippi's lumber industry and for anyone concerned about the quality of the air in our state. For questions or information about this page, contact Kay Fike Jones .