Of the alternatives currently available, the only chemical free, guaranteed methods of insect pest eradication are the unique Thermo Lignum^® WARMAIR system.

From the outset the concept behind the Thermo Lignum^® WARMAIRdevelopment relied on the fact that the majority of insects at any of the various stages of their life cycle will die if they are subjected to temperatures above 50°C for an extended period. The key to using heat as the lethal agent was that by controlling the RH (relative humidity or moisture content) of the atmosphere accurately, we could prevent organic materials from dehydrating as the temperature increased. In this way the resultant splitting, twisting and warping of wood, for example, would be prevented. In addition to extensive trials on a wide range of timbers, the method was tested successfully on animal and synthetic adhesives, veneers, paintings, leather and skins, ethnographic and natural history specimens, herbaria, paper and a wide spectrum of textiles.

Controlling realitve himidity (RH)
All organic materials are hygroscopic (i.e. can absorb moisture). The amount of moisture they contain at any given time will vary according to the prevailing conditions of temperature and relative humidity (RH) in the atmosphere in which they exist.

The relationship between the relative humidity and temperature of the atmosphere on the one hand, and the moisture content of wood on the other, is not linear. The actual inter-relationship is indicated on the Keylwerth diagram. In order to keep the moisture content of wood constant whilst increasing the temperature surrounding it, the isotherm must be followed closely. The Thermo-Lignum^® process does this by constantly monitoring both the RH and temperature of the atmosphere within the treatment chamber and the core temperature of the object being treated. The data obtained is fed into a computer-controlled system, which continuously modifies the conditions in the chamber as required.

The Thermo Lignum^® WARMAIR technique uses a purpose-built chamber equipped with very sensitive and responsive temperature and humidity controls to ensure the stability of moisture in objects during the 24-hour (average) treatment cycle. So sensitive is the process, that it is especially advantageous in the treatment of wood, whether plain, veneered or decorated with marquetry or Boulle, lacquer or Japanwork.

Today we are able to use our sympathetic techniques in a wide range of applications since the problem affects more than just antiques and works of art.