Wood tar meaning

Wood tar is a sticky, dark liquid produced by the destructive distillation of wood.


Wood tar definitions

Word backwards doow rat
Part of speech Wood tar is a noun.
Syllabic division wood tar: wood-tar
Plural The plural of the word "wood tar" is "wood tars."
Total letters 7
Vogais (2) o,a
Consonants (4) w,d,t,r

What is Wood Tar?

Wood tar, also known as wood pitch or pitch, is a dark viscous substance created through the destructive distillation of wood. The process involves heating wood in the absence of air to break it down into various components, with wood tar being one of the byproducts.

Uses of Wood Tar

Wood tar has been used for centuries for various purposes, including as a sealant for wooden boats and buildings due to its water-resistant properties. In the past, it was also utilized in traditional medicine for its antiseptic qualities.

Traditional Uses

In traditional medicine, wood tar was applied topically to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Its antifungal and antibacterial properties made it a popular choice for wound care.

Industrial Applications

In modern times, wood tar finds applications in the industrial sector, particularly in the production of creosote, a wood preservative. Creosote derived from wood tar is used to protect wood against decay and insect damage.

Production Process

The production of wood tar involves heating wood in a specialized apparatus called a retort. As the wood is heated, volatile components are released and collected as wood tar. The tar is then further processed to remove impurities and obtain the desired consistency.

Environmental Impact

While wood tar has beneficial applications, its production can have environmental consequences due to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the destructive distillation process. Proper handling and disposal of wood tar are essential to minimize its impact on the environment.

Future Prospects

Research is ongoing to explore more sustainable methods of wood tar production and potential applications in various industries. By optimizing production processes and reducing environmental impact, wood tar could continue to be a valuable resource in the future.


Wood tar Examples

  1. The wood tar was used to protect the wooden fence from weathering.
  2. The wood tar added a rustic aroma to the new log cabin.
  3. The wood tar helped to seal the cracks in the old wooden boat.
  4. The wood tar gave the furniture a glossy finish.
  5. The wood tar was mixed with sawdust to create a natural wood filler.
  6. The wood tar acted as a natural insect repellent on the wooden deck.
  7. The wood tar was used in traditional medicine to treat skin conditions.
  8. The wood tar was burned as incense during ancient rituals.
  9. The wood tar was a key ingredient in the production of pitch for ships.
  10. The wood tar was applied to the axe handle to improve grip.


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  • Updated 18/04/2024 - 14:15:03