The global softwood lumber market lost much momentum as a result of the euro debt crisis and US housing market slump. Growth is expected to slow significantly in America and Europe, but demand in Japan and China is expected to remain high. By Russ Taylor, president, and Alice Palmer, consultant, Wood Markets Group

After a better than expected 2011, growth is expected to continue, but at a more moderate pace in 2012. The development of the secondary manufacturing market in the ASEAN region will hold the key to sustained growth. By Ingo Bette, marketing director, VDMA

The year 2011 has been one of mixed performance, members from the Singapore Furniture Industries Council, Ernie Koh, executive director of Richin Furniture, Kenny Koh, MD of Star Funiture, and Phua Boon Huat, manager of HTL International Holdings shared their views with FDM Asia on the importance of the Asian market and the challenges ahead.

The application of thin coatings on cutting tools can modify their physical and chemical properties, increasing their durability which will in turn reduce the amount of downtime for replacement or repair. By Bogdan Warcholinski and Adam Gilewicz, Koszalin University of Technology

High speed cutting in the absence of cooling agent places considerable strain on a cutting tool’s wear life. Boron nitride composite can offer enhanced durability with the versatility of achieving low tool angles required for efficient cutting of different wood species. By Marcin Zbiec, Warsaw University of Life Sciences

Veneer offers flexibility in design with its ability to be pressed onto flat and uneven surfaces. In addition, it is a good environmental choice, saving on materials by making products look like they are made of solid wood or rare wood species. By Shiv Kumar Shet, assistant general manager, Woodtech Consultants

The marriage of automation solutions and woodworking processes is nothing new. Nevertheless, there is room for more possibilities. By Shahnawaz Abdul Hamid

High linear expansion and thickness swell limits the application of oriented strand board (OSB) panels despite their huge potential. Developments in production technology and treatment are hoping to change that. By Zeki Candan and Turgay Akbulut, Istanbul University

The year 2012 will see bold flooring designs with complexity in texture made possible with novel surface treatment technologies such as Embossed In Register and digital printing. By Karin Dullweber, the Association of European Producers of Laminate Flooring

The lack of quality wood raw materials means that a lot of money is spent on surface processing before coating. Pre-press additives can save cost by providing an even panel surface without additional treatment. By Klaus Meinert, manager of technology, research and development, Brav-O-Tech

Today’s office environment is one of mobility and flexibility. Office furniture design must evolve with this shift in perception to provide ergonomic solutions that cater to modern demands. By Michael O’Neill, senior director of workplace research, Knoll

The current model of awarding credits for sourcing materials locally may not depict a product’s environmental impact accurately. With the introduction of environmental product declaration requirements, full life cycle assessment becomes the natural next step. By Helen Goodland, principal, Brantwood Consulting Partnership