Effect of repeated wetting and drying on withdrawal capacity and corrosion of nails in treated and untreated timber

Abstract

The impact of cyclic moisture changes on nail withdrawal capacity in face grain was examined on untreated and light organic solvent-treated hoop pine boards using plain or electro-galvanised fasteners subjected to up to eight cycles. Nail withdrawal capacity, the presence of cracks, ATR-FTIR analysis and the degree of nail corrosion were used to characterize moisture effects. There were no significant differences in the loss of withdrawal capacity or corrosion level between treated and untreated wood. Results suggest that a certain level of nail corrosion may have positive effects on withdrawal capacity.