Laboratory-scale life cycle assessment and cost analysis of beechwood degreasing methodsBizjak Štrus, Neja (Avtor) Remic, Katarina (Avtor) Kitek Kuzman, Manja (Avtor) Oblak, Leon (Avtor) Dahle, Sebastian (Avtor) LCAcost-analysisplasma treatmentturpentinepetroleum-based solventbeechwoodIn recent years, research has increasingly focused on developing eco-friendly processes in various industries to reduce CO$_2$ emissions. Plasma treatment has emerged as a promising technique for surface modification, particularly for thermosensitive materials like wood. It alters surface functional groups, enhances coating adhesion, and effectively cleans surfaces before coating. This study aimed to compare the cost and environmental impact of 1m$^2$ of degreased beechwood (Fagus sylvatica, L.) boards degreased using either turpentine, petroleum-based solvent, or diffused coplanar surface barrier discharge plasma. A life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted using SimaPro software and the ecoinvent database. Additionally, a cost analysis was performed. Both midpoint and endpoint impact categories were analysed from a Hierarchist methodological alternative within the ReCiPe method. The results revealed that plasma-treated wood exhibited a lower environmental impact in all categories compared to turpentine-treated wood for both midpoint and endpoint levels. When compared to petroleum-based solvents, plasma-treated wood had a lower impact on resources and human health categories. Additionally, the plasma degreasing method was 97% more cost-effective than using turpentine and 96% more economical than petroleum-based solvent degreasing. These findings highlight plasma treatment's potential as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative.20262026-06-03 11:21:49Članek v reviji183070sl