TESTING

water resistance
1.Water Immersion Test
Procedure:

Sample Preparation: Apply the wheat gluten-based sealant to wood samples. Ensure consistent
application across all samples.
Immersion: Submerge the treated wood samples in water for a specified period, typically ranging
from 24 hours to several days.
Observation: Remove the samples and observe any changes, such as swelling, warping, or
delamination.
Measurement: Weigh the samples before and after immersion to determine the amount of water
absorbed.
Metrics:

Water absorption percentage

Visual inspection for physical changes
2. Contact Angle Measurement
Procedure:

Sample Preparation: Apply the sealant to flat wood surfaces and allow it to cure.
Droplet Application: Place a small water droplet on the sealed surface.
Measurement: Use a contact angle goniometer to measure the angle formed between the water
droplet and the surface of the sealant.
Metrics:

Contact angle (higher angles indicate better water resistance)

3. Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR) Test
Procedure:

Sample Preparation: Apply the sealant to a test substrate, typically a thin film or membrane.
Test Setup: Use a WVTR testing apparatus where the sample separates two chambers with different
humidity levels.
Measurement: Measure the amount of water vapor that passes through the sealant over a specified
period.
Metrics:

Water vapor transmission rate (lower rates indicate better water resistance)
4. Spray Test
Procedure:

Sample Preparation: Seal wood samples with the wheat gluten-based sealant.
Spraying: Expose the sealed samples to a fine mist of water for a set duration using a controlled spray
chamber.
Observation: Inspect the samples for water penetration, surface integrity, and any changes in
appearance.
Metrics:

Visual inspection for water penetration and damage

5. Cyclic Moisture Exposure Test
Procedure:

Sample Preparation: Apply the sealant to wood samples and allow curing.
Cyclic Exposure: Subject the samples to repeated cycles of wetting and drying. This can be done by
alternating between immersion in water and exposure to dry air or using a humidity chamber.
Observation: Check for changes such as cracking, peeling, or loss of adhesion after multiple cycles.
Metrics:

Number of cycles endured before failure

Visual inspection for damage
6. Capillary Water Absorption Test
Procedure:

Sample Preparation: Apply the sealant to the end grain of wood samples.
Test Setup: Place the samples in a shallow tray with water so that only the base is submerged.
Observation: Measure the height of water absorbed through capillary action over time.
Metrics:

Capillary rise height

Time taken for water to reach specific heights
Equipment and Materials Needed
Water immersion tanks
Contact angle goniometer
WVTR testing apparatus
Controlled spray chamber
Humidity chamber or environmental chamber
Shallow trays for capillary tests
Precision balance for weight measurements
Standards and Guidelines
Refer to relevant ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) or ISO (International
Organization for Standardization) standards for detailed procedures and guidelines. Examples include:

ASTM D4446: Standard Test Method for Water Absorption of Chemically Treated Wood and Wood-
Base Materials
ASTM E96: Standard Test Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials
By using these methods, you can comprehensively evaluate the water resistance of wheat gluten-
based sealants, ensuring their effectiveness in protecting wood from moisture-related damage.

insect infestation

1.Laboratory Termite Test

Procedure:

Sample Preparation: Apply the wheat gluten-based sealant to wood samples and allow it to cure.
Termite Exposure: Place the treated wood samples in containers with live termites (e.g.,
Reticulitermes spp. or Coptotermes spp.).
Observation Period: Maintain the samples in the termite environment for a set period, typically 4-6
weeks.
Evaluation: Assess the damage to the wood samples by visually inspecting for signs of termite activity,
such as tunnels, surface erosion, and frass (termite droppings).
Metrics:

Degree of wood damage (e.g., visual scoring system)

Termite mortality rate (if applicable)
2. Field Exposure Test
Procedure:

Sample Preparation: Apply the sealant to wood samples.

Field Placement: Install the treated wood samples in an outdoor environment known for high insect
activity, such as a termite-infested area.
Monitoring: Regularly inspect the samples over a period of several months to a year.
Evaluation: Examine the samples for signs of insect damage and infestation.
Metrics:
Extent of wood damage (visual inspection and measurement)
Presence of live insects
3. Beetle Infestation Test
Procedure:

Sample Preparation: Seal wood samples with the wheat gluten-based sealant.
Beetle Exposure: Introduce wood-boring beetles (e.g., Anobiidae or Bostrichidae family) to the
treated samples in a controlled environment.
Observation Period: Maintain the samples under optimal conditions for beetle activity for a specified
duration.
Evaluation: Check for beetle exit holes, frass, and internal damage by dissecting the wood samples.
Metrics:

Number and size of beetle exit holes

Degree of internal wood damage
4. Antibacterial and Antifungal Additive Efficacy Test
Since certain insects are attracted to fungi growing on wood, the effectiveness of antimicrobial
additives in the sealant can indirectly indicate its resistance to insect infestation.

Procedure:

Sample Preparation: Incorporate antimicrobial additives like cinnamaldehyde or essential oils into the
wheat gluten-based sealant and apply to wood samples.
Fungal Exposure: Expose treated wood samples to fungal spores (e.g., Aspergillus niger or Penicillium
spp.).
Observation Period: Incubate the samples under humid conditions conducive to fungal growth.
Evaluation: Assess fungal growth on the wood surface and within the wood.
Metrics:

Extent of fungal colonization (visual inspection and measurement)

Effectiveness of antimicrobial additives in preventing fungal growth
Equipment and Materials Needed
Controlled environment chambers for insect exposure
Termite or beetle colonies
Microscopes for detailed inspection
Measuring tools for assessing damage
Field sites with known insect activity
Fungal spores and incubation equipment
Standards and Guidelines
Refer to relevant ASTM or ISO standards for detailed procedures and guidelines. Examples include:

ASTM D3345: Standard Test Method for Laboratory Evaluation of Wood and Other Cellulosic
Materials for Resistance to Termites
ASTM D1758: Standard Test Method of Evaluating Wood Preservatives by Field Tests with Stakes
By using these methods, you can comprehensively evaluate the insect infestation resistance of wheat
gluten-based sealants, ensuring their effectiveness in protecting wood from insect-related damage.

Sun and Moisture Exposure Resistance

1. Accelerated Weathering Test
Procedure:

Sample Preparation: Apply the wheat gluten-based sealant to wood samples and allow it to cure.
Test Setup: Place the samples in an accelerated weathering chamber (e.g., a QUV tester) that
simulates sunlight and moisture conditions. The chamber typically uses UV lamps to simulate sunlight
and includes a moisture system to simulate rain and dew.
Exposure Cycles: Subject the samples to repeated cycles of UV light exposure and moisture
application (spray or condensation) for a specified duration, such as 500, 1000, or 2000 hours.
Evaluation: Periodically inspect the samples for signs of degradation, such as discoloration, cracking,
peeling, and loss of adhesion.
Metrics:

Visual inspection for surface degradation

Measurement of color change (using a colorimeter)
Adhesion test (peel test)
2. Outdoor Weathering Test
Procedure:

Sample Preparation: Apply the sealant to wood samples and allow it to cure.
Test Setup: Install the samples outdoors in an area exposed to natural sunlight and weather
conditions.
Monitoring Period: Leave the samples exposed for an extended period, such as six months to a year.
Evaluation: Regularly inspect the samples for signs of degradation, similar to the accelerated
weathering test.
Metrics:

Visual inspection for surface degradation

Measurement of color change
Assessment of adhesion and structural integrity
3. UV Resistance Test
Procedure:

Sample Preparation: Seal wood samples with the wheat gluten-based formulation.
Test Setup: Expose the samples to UV light in a UV chamber for a set duration.
Observation: Examine the samples periodically for changes in appearance and integrity.
Metrics:

Visual inspection for discoloration and cracking

Measurement of changes in mechanical properties (tensile strength, hardness)
4. Moisture Exposure Test
Procedure:

Sample Preparation: Apply the sealant to wood samples.

Test Setup: Expose the samples to cyclic moisture conditions. This can involve alternating between
immersion in water and drying or using a humidity chamber with controlled humidity levels.
Evaluation: Inspect the samples for swelling, warping, or other signs of moisture damage.
Metrics:

Measurement of dimensional changes (swelling, warping)

Visual inspection for surface and structural damage
Equipment and Materials Needed
Accelerated weathering chamber (QUV tester)
UV light chamber
Outdoor exposure setup
Humidity chamber
Colorimeter for measuring color change
Tools for measuring dimensional changes (calipers, micrometers)
Adhesion testing equipment (peel tester)
Standards and Guidelines
Refer to relevant ASTM or ISO standards for detailed procedures and guidelines. Examples include:

ASTM G154: Standard Practice for Operating Fluorescent Ultraviolet (UV) Lamp Apparatus for
Exposure of Nonmetallic Materials
ASTM D4587: Standard Practice for Fluorescent UV-Condensation Exposures of Paint and Related
Coatings
ISO 11507: Paints and varnishes — Exposure of coatings to artificial weathering — Exposure to
fluorescent UV lamps and water
By employing these methods, you can comprehensively evaluate the sun and moisture exposure
resistance of wheat gluten-based sealants, ensuring their effectiveness in protecting wood from
environmental degradation over time.

how do we Determine how effective wheat gluten is as a substitute for volatile organic compounds
in sealants in terms of adhesion

Determining how effective wheat gluten is as a substitute for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in
sealants in terms of adhesion involves comparing the adhesive performance of wheat gluten-based
sealants with traditional VOC-based sealants. Here are the steps and methods to conduct this
evaluation:

1. Sample Preparation
Procedure:

Wheat Gluten-Based Sealant: Prepare a batch of sealant using wheat gluten as the primary binder.
VOC-Based Sealant: Prepare or procure a batch of traditional VOC-based sealant.
Substrate Preparation: Clean and prepare wood samples to ensure consistent and reliable results. This
may involve sanding and cleaning to remove dust and contaminants.
2. Adhesion Testing Methods
Adhesion can be evaluated using various standardized tests. Here are some commonly used methods:

A. Peel Test
Procedure:

Application: Apply both the wheat gluten-based and VOC-based sealants to separate wood samples.
Curing: Allow the sealants to cure according to their respective manufacturer’s instructions.
Peel Test: Use a peel testing machine to measure the force required to peel the sealant from the
substrate at a constant angle and speed.
Metrics:

Peel strength (measured in Newtons or pounds-force)

Type of failure (adhesive, cohesive, or substrate failure)
B. Lap Shear Test
Procedure:

Application: Apply the sealants to create an overlap joint between two wood samples.
Curing: Allow the sealants to cure.
Lap Shear Test: Use a tensile testing machine to pull the samples apart and measure the force
required to break the joint.
Metrics:

Shear strength (measured in Newtons or pounds-force)

Type of failure
C. Tensile Adhesion Test
Procedure:

Application: Apply the sealants between two wooden blocks.

Curing: Allow the sealants to cure.
Tensile Test: Use a tensile testing machine to pull the blocks apart and measure the maximum force
the sealant can withstand before breaking.
Metrics:

Tensile strength (measured in Newtons per square meter or psi)

Type of failure
3. Environmental Exposure Testing
To further assess the adhesion performance under real-world conditions, subject the sealed samples
to environmental stress tests such as:

Temperature Cycling: Expose the samples to repeated cycles of high and low temperatures.
Humidity Exposure: Subject the samples to high humidity conditions.
UV Exposure: Expose the samples to UV light to simulate sunlight exposure.
Evaluation:

Re-conduct the peel, lap shear, or tensile tests after environmental exposure to determine any
changes in adhesion performance.
4. Data Analysis and Comparison
Procedure:

Data Collection: Record the adhesion strength and type of failure for each test.
Statistical Analysis: Use statistical methods to compare the adhesion performance of wheat gluten-
based sealants with VOC-based sealants. Analyze the mean values, standard deviations, and perform
hypothesis testing (e.g., t-tests) to determine if there are significant differences.
Failure Mode Analysis: Assess the type of failure to understand whether the sealant failed at the
adhesive interface, within the sealant itself (cohesive failure), or at the substrate.
Standards and Guidelines
Refer to relevant ASTM or ISO standards for detailed procedures and guidelines. Examples include:

ASTM D903: Standard Test Method for Peel or Stripping Strength of Adhesive Bonds
ASTM D1002: Standard Test Method for Apparent Shear Strength of Single-Lap-Joint Adhesively
Bonded Metal Specimens by Tension Loading (Metal-to-Metal)
ASTM D4541: Standard Test Method for Pull-Off Strength of Coatings Using Portable Adhesion Testers
By using these methods, you can comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of wheat gluten as a
substitute for VOCs in sealants in terms of adhesion. This will help determine whether wheat gluten-
based sealants can provide comparable or superior performance to traditional VOC-based sealants.

how long do we cure the wood

The curing time for wood sealants can vary depending on the specific formulation and the conditions
under which the sealant is applied and cured. Generally, curing times can range from a few hours to
several days. Here are some guidelines to help determine the appropriate curing time for wheat
gluten-based sealants:

Factors Affecting Curing Time

Type of Sealant: Different formulations may have varying curing times. Check the manufacturer's
recommendations if available.
Environmental Conditions: Temperature, humidity, and airflow can significantly affect the curing
process. Warmer temperatures and lower humidity typically speed up curing, while cooler
temperatures and higher humidity can slow it down.
Thickness of Application: Thicker layers of sealant will take longer to cure than thinner ones.
General Guidelines for Curing Times
Initial Set Time: This is the time it takes for the sealant to become tack-free. For most sealants, this
can range from 1 to 24 hours.
Full Cure Time: This is the time required for the sealant to achieve its full mechanical properties. For
most wood sealants, this can range from 24 hours to 7 days.
Specific Curing Times
Wheat Gluten-Based Sealants: If no specific instructions are available for wheat gluten-based sealants,
it is reasonable to follow the general guidelines for water-based or protein-based adhesives, which
typically recommend:
Initial Set Time: 2 to 4 hours
Full Cure Time: 24 to 48 hours under standard conditions (70°F/21°C and 50% relative humidity)
Testing and Validation
Before conducting adhesion and performance tests, ensure that the sealant has fully cured. Here are
steps to confirm:

Tack-Free Test: Lightly touch the sealant surface to check if it is tack-free (not sticky to the touch). This
indicates that the initial set has been achieved.
Physical Inspection: Check for uniform hardness and any visible signs of incomplete curing, such as
soft spots or color inconsistencies.
Manufacturer's Instructions: Always refer to any available guidelines or technical data sheets for the
specific sealant being used.
Recommended Curing Protocol
Apply the Sealant: Apply the wheat gluten-based sealant to the prepared wood surfaces according to
the required thickness.
Initial Curing: Allow the sealant to set for 2 to 4 hours, ensuring it becomes tack-free.
Full Curing: Let the sealant cure for 24 to 48 hours under standard laboratory conditions (70°F/21°C
and 50% relative humidity).
Environmental Adjustments: Adjust curing times if conditions deviate from standard laboratory
conditions. For example, extend the curing time in cooler or more humid environments.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that the wheat gluten-based sealant is fully cured and
ready for subsequent testing and evaluation.

how long do common wood sealant cure the wood

The curing time for common wood sealants can vary depending on several factors, including the type
of sealant, environmental conditions, and application thickness. Here's a general guideline for the
curing times of common wood sealants:

Water-Based Sealants:

Initial Set Time: Water-based sealants typically have a short initial set time, ranging from 1 to 4 hours.
During this time, the sealant starts to dry and becomes tack-free.
Full Cure Time: The full cure time for water-based sealants is usually between 24 to 48 hours under
standard conditions (70°F/21°C and 50% relative humidity). However, it's essential to allow additional
curing time for thicker applications or under less favorable environmental conditions.
Solvent-Based Sealants:

Initial Set Time: Solvent-based sealants may have a slightly longer initial set time compared to water-
based sealants, typically ranging from 2 to 6 hours.
Full Cure Time: The full cure time for solvent-based sealants can vary but generally falls within the
range of 24 to 72 hours under standard conditions. However, as with water-based sealants, thicker
applications and adverse environmental conditions may necessitate longer curing times.
Polyurethane Sealants:

Initial Set Time: Polyurethane sealants typically have a relatively short initial set time, similar to water-
based sealants, ranging from 1 to 4 hours.
Full Cure Time: The full cure time for polyurethane sealants is typically longer, ranging from 24 to 72
hours under standard conditions. Polyurethane sealants require adequate time to cross-link and
achieve their maximum strength and durability.
Acrylic Sealants:

Initial Set Time: Acrylic sealants often have a quick initial set time, similar to water-based sealants,
ranging from 1 to 4 hours.
Full Cure Time: The full cure time for acrylic sealants is generally within the range of 24 to 48 hours
under standard conditions. However, thicker applications and colder temperatures may extend the
curing time.
Environmental Factors:
Temperature: Warmer temperatures accelerate curing, while colder temperatures slow it down. It's
essential to apply sealants within the recommended temperature range specified by the
manufacturer.
Humidity: Higher humidity levels can prolong curing times, especially for water-based sealants, as
they rely on evaporation for drying.
Thickness of Application:
Thicker applications of sealant will require longer curing times to ensure complete drying and curing
throughout the depth of the sealant layer.
Manufacturer's Instructions:
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for the specific sealant product
being used. The manufacturer may provide specific guidelines for curing times based on the
formulation and intended application.
By adhering to these guidelines and considering the specific characteristics of the wood sealant being
used, you can ensure proper curing and optimal performance of the sealant on the wood surface.

how do we investigate the sealing properties of the wheat-gluten based sealant under anticipated
lifetime

Investigating the sealing properties of wheat gluten-based sealants under anticipated lifetime involves
conducting various tests and evaluations to assess the durability, performance, and longevity of the
sealant under realistic conditions. Here's how you can conduct such an investigation:

1. Accelerated Aging Tests

UV Exposure: Subject the sealed wood samples to UV radiation using a UV chamber to simulate
sunlight exposure. Monitor the samples for signs of discoloration, degradation, and loss of adhesion
over time.
Thermal Cycling: Cycle the samples between high and low temperatures to simulate temperature
fluctuations. Evaluate the sealant's ability to maintain adhesion and flexibility under thermal stress.
2. Environmental Exposure Tests
Outdoor Exposure: Install the sealed wood samples in an outdoor environment exposed to natural
weather conditions. Regularly inspect the samples for changes in appearance, adhesion, and integrity.
Humidity Exposure: Subject the samples to high humidity conditions to simulate moisture exposure.
Assess the sealant's resistance to swelling, warping, and degradation.
3. Mechanical Stress Tests
Flexibility Test: Apply controlled bending or flexing to the sealed wood samples to simulate
mechanical stress. Evaluate the sealant's ability to maintain adhesion and integrity under dynamic
conditions.
Abrasion Test: Subject the sealed samples to abrasion using a standardized abrasion tester. Measure
any loss of sealant material or changes in surface appearance.
4. Long-Term Durability Monitoring
Periodic Inspections: Regularly inspect the sealed wood samples at predefined intervals (e.g., monthly
or quarterly) throughout the anticipated lifetime. Document any changes in appearance, adhesion, or
performance.
Performance Metrics: Use quantitative metrics such as color change, adhesion strength, and
dimensional stability to track the sealant's performance over time.
Failure Analysis: Investigate any instances of sealant failure or degradation to identify root causes and
potential improvements.
5. Real-World Case Studies
Field Trials: Conduct field trials by applying the wheat gluten-based sealant to actual construction
projects or structures. Monitor the performance of the sealant over an extended period, gathering
feedback from end-users and stakeholders.
Case Studies: Document and analyze real-world applications of the sealant, including its performance,
durability, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional sealants.
6. Standards and Guidelines
Refer to relevant ASTM, ISO, or industry-specific standards for testing procedures and guidelines
related to sealant durability and performance evaluation.
Conclusion
By conducting a comprehensive investigation of the sealing properties of wheat gluten-based sealants
under anticipated lifetime conditions, you can assess their long-term durability, performance, and
suitability for various applications in construction and building maintenance. This thorough evaluation
will help validate the effectiveness of the sealant and guide further improvements and optimizations.